mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, white to pale translucent pinkish-orange, vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, poor/no cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65.

Identified July 24, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, white to pale translucent pinkish-orange, vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, poor/no cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins, pegmatites, and metamorphic rocks. The cloudy or milky appearance is caused by tiny inclusions of gas, liquid, or other minerals trapped during crystal growth.

Uses & applications

Used in glassmaking, ceramics, abrasive manufacturing, as a source of silicon, and in landscape decor or rock collections.

Geological facts

Milky quartz is one of the most common mineral varieties on Earth. The milky appearance is due to millions of microscopic fluid bubbles enclosed within the crystal during its formation.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (scratches glass, cannot be scratched by a steel knife), lack of cleavage, and white-to-pinkish translucent hue. Found worldwide in riverbeds, gravels, pegmatites, and quartz veins.