mineral
Milky Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 Mohs; Color: White to off-white/cream; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 Mohs
- Color
- White to off-white/cream
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 Mohs; Color: White to off-white/cream; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed during the final stages of hydrothermal mineralisation within veins or in igneous pegmatites. The milky appearance is caused by tiny liquid or gas bubble inclusions trapped during crystal growth.
Uses & applications
Used in glassmaking, as an abrasive, in electronics for its piezoelectric properties, and widely in landscaping and gravel.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Milky quartz is the most common variety of crystalline quartz.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its hardness (scratches glass), white color, and lack of cleavage. Often found in riverbeds or as veins in mountain ranges.
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Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous