mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: White, translucent to sub-opaque milky white. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal System: Trigonal/Hexagonal. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: White, translucent to sub-opaque milky white
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified July 24, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms through hydrothermal processes, igneous crystallization in pegmatites and veins, as well as metamorphic environments. The milky appearance is caused by microscopic fluid inclusions trapped during growth.

Uses & applications

Widely used in gemstone carving, landscaping, glass manufacturing, abrasives, silicon production, and as popular specimens for mineral collectors.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals in Earth's continental crust. The white or 'milky' appearance comes from tiny bubbles of gas or liquid trapped inside the crystal as it formed millions of years ago.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its hardness (scratches glass easily), lack of cleavage, milky white hue, and vitreous-to-greasy luster. Common worldwide in gravels, stream beds, pegmatites, and quartz veins.