mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness of 7 on Mohs scale, milky white to pale yellowish-pink hue due to iron staining, vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal/hexagonal crystal system, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity around 2.65.

Identified July 25, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in hydrothermal veins, pegmatites, igneous intrusive bodies, and metamorphic rocks. The white opaqueness is caused by minute fluid inclusions trapped during crystal growth over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Used in gemstone and mineral collections, decorative landscaping, quartz countertops, glass manufacturing, electronics (semiconductors/silicon metal), and abrasives.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Pure quartz is completely clear, but tiny microscopic gas or liquid bubbles trapped within the crystal structure obscure light and give milky quartz its cloudy appearance.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its hardness (cannot be scratched by a steel pocketknife), glassy/greasy fracture surfaces, lack of cleavage, and translucent white color. Commonly found in gravel beds, stream beds, and mountain veins worldwide.