mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: White to off-white; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: White to off-white
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified July 15, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: White to off-white; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites through the cooling of silica-rich solutions in the Earth's crust. It is a common constituent of many igneous rocks like granite.

Uses & applications

Used in the manufacturing of glass, ceramics, and abrasives. High-quality quartz is used in electronics for its piezoelectric properties. This milky variety is also common in landscaping and jewelry.

Geological facts

The milky appearance is caused by tiny fluid inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth. It is the most common variety of crystalline quartz.

Field identification & locations

Can be identified in the field by its hardness (it will scratch glass), its lack of cleavage, and its waxy or vitreous luster. It is found globally in almost every geological environment.