mineral

Milky quartz

Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically Mohs hardness 7, white to translucent, with a vitreous to greasy luster and a hexagonal crystal structure; it has no cleavage and breaks with conchoidal fracture. The rough, opaque-white appearance is consistent with massive milky quartz, though the photo alone cannot confirm the identification.

Identified October 6, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich fluids crystallize in veins and cavities, or during igneous and metamorphic processes. Quartz occurs in rocks of many ages worldwide.

Uses & applications

Commonly used for decorative stone, carvings, and mineral collecting; industrial quartz is used in glass and electronics, though this rough specimen is not visibly gem grade.

Geological facts

Its cloudy appearance comes from tiny fluid or gas inclusions that scatter light.

Field identification & locations

Look for glassy luster, hardness sufficient to scratch glass, and absence of cleavage; it commonly occurs in quartz veins and pegmatites. A scratch or hardness test should be done only with permission, since other white minerals can look similar.