mineral
Milky Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: White to translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal system: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- White to translucent
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: White to translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal system: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed through the crystallization of silica-rich hydrothermal solutions in veins or during the cooling of igneous magmas. Milky quartz gets its appearance from tiny fluid inclusions trapped during crystal growth.
Uses & applications
Used as an abrasive, in glass manufacturing, as a decorative stone in landscaping, and occasionally in jewelry as cabochons or beads. Also significant for spiritual/collector purposes.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Milky quartz is specifically distinct due to the 'frozen' gas and liquid bubbles that scatter light within the crystal structure.
Field identification & locations
Can be identified by its ability to scratch glass and lack of cleavage. Look for it in high-grade metamorphic regions or as veins within granite and other igneous rocks.
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Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Sandstone with Mineral Veining or Crust
Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic