mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Milky white to translucent. Luster: Vitreous (glass-like) to greasy. Crystal System: Trigonal/Hexagonal. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: ~2.65.

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Milky white to translucent
Luster: Vitreous (glass-like) to greasy

Identified July 23, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms during the late stages of magmatic crystallization in pegmatites, hydrothermal veins, and metamorphic environments. The white cloudy appearance is caused by tiny gas and liquid bubble inclusions trapped during crystal growth.

Uses & applications

Used extensively in glass manufacturing, electronics (piezoelectric properties), abrasives, landscaping, quartz countertops, and as ornamental/lapidary specimens.

Geological facts

Milky quartz is the most common variety of crystalline quartz on Earth. The milky appearance is due to millions of microscopic fluid inclusions of gas, liquid, or petroleum trapped during its formation.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its white milky color, vitreous luster, hardness of 7 (scratches glass), and absence of cleavage with typical conchoidal fracturing. Found worldwide in quartz veins, pegmatites, and gravel deposits.