mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale). Color: Opaque white to translucent white. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal). Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: Opaque white to translucent white
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified July 9, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale). Color: Opaque white to translucent white. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal). Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Formed from silicon-enriched hydrothermal solutions and in igneous pegmatites. The milky appearance is caused by tiny inclusions of liquid or gas trapped during crystal growth. Common in Precambrian to Cenozoic formations.

Uses & applications

Used in the manufacturing of glass and ceramics, as an abrasive in sandblasting, in high-frequency oscillators for electronics, and in landscaping and jewelry (as cabochons).

Geological facts

Milky quartz is the most common variety of crystalline quartz. It is often found associated with gold in hydrothermal veins, leading miners to search for it as an indicator mineral.

Field identification & locations

Identified in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and characteristic waxy or vitreous luster. It is highly resistant to weathering and often forms the matrix for various metal ores.