
mineral
Milky Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White to opaque milky white, Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White to opaque milky white, Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed through the crystallization of magma or from hydrothermal veins. The milky appearance is caused by tiny inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth. Can be found in rocks from almost any geological age.
Uses & applications
Used in the production of glass, ceramics, and as an abrasive. Also used in construction aggregate and as a semi-precious gemstone in jewelry or for decorative landscaping.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Milky quartz is a variety of quartz that often occurs in massive veins, sometimes associated with gold deposits.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its hardness (it can scratch glass), white color, and lack of cleavage. It is commonly found in gravel, river beds, and mountain outcrops globally.
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous