mineral
Milky Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Mohs hardness of 7, white to translucent color, vitreous to greasy luster, hexagonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, 2.65 specific gravity.
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness of 7, white to translucent color, vitreous to greasy luster, hexagonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, 2.65 specific gravity.
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites through the cooling of silica-rich fluids. It is found in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments worldwide.
Uses & applications
Used in glass making, ceramics, electronics (piezoelectric properties), abrasives, and as a decorative stone or gemstone in jewelry.
Geological facts
The 'milky' appearance is caused by tiny inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth. It is the most common variety of crystalline quartz.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and characteristic milky white transparency. Commonly found in riverbeds and mountainous terrain.
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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Sandstone with Mineral Veining or Crust
Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)
sedimentary
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock