mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: White to off-white, semi-translucent to opaque. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal System: Hexagonal (trigonal). Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: White to off-white, semi-translucent to opaque
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified July 24, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the crystallization of silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal fluids in vein deposits. Minute bubbles of gas and liquid trapped during crystal growth create the milky white appearance.

Uses & applications

Used as a gemstone, decorative stone, in lapidary work, and historically as an abrasive or in glassmaking. Highly popular among amateur rock collectors.

Geological facts

Milky quartz is the most common variety of crystalline quartz found on Earth. The cloudy white color is caused by microscopic fluid inclusions trapped during the mineral's formation millions of years ago.

Field identification & locations

Can be identified in the field by its scratch resistance (scratches glass and steel), lack of cleavage, white to cream color, and vitreous to greasy luster. Widely found in granite pegmatites, hydrothermal veins, and quartz gravels globally.