mineral

Milky quartz

Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness 7 Mohs; white to translucent, vitreous-to-waxy luster, typically massive with no visible crystal faces. It has indistinct cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and specific gravity about 2.65.

Identified August 9, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness 7 Mohs; white to translucent, vitreous-to-waxy luster, typically massive with no visible crystal faces. It has indistinct cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and specific gravity about 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich fluids crystallize in veins, cavities, and igneous rocks; the cloudy appearance results from microscopic fluid inclusions or structural defects. Quartz is common from Precambrian to modern geological settings.

Uses & applications

Used in glass, ceramics, abrasives, electronics, and construction aggregate; attractive pieces are sold as inexpensive lapidary or display specimens.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is the defining mineral of many sands and quartz-rich rocks. Milky quartz commonly occurs with feldspar, mica, and metallic ores.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its glassy appearance, lack of cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and ability to scratch ordinary glass. Common locations include hydrothermal veins and granitic terrains worldwide; this rounded piece may be tumbled or naturally weathered.