mineral
Milky Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White to opaque, Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White to opaque, Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed through the cooling of silica-rich hydrothermal fluids or magma. Milky quartz gets its appearance from tiny fluid or gas inclusions trapped during crystal growth.
Uses & applications
Used in glassmaking, ceramics, abrasives, and as a source of silicon for electronics. Also used in lapidary work for cabochons and tumbled stones.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals in Earth's crust. Milky quartz is the most common variety of crystalline quartz found in nature.
Field identification & locations
Look for a glassy white appearance and hardness that can scratch glass. It is commonly found in riverbeds, mountains, and as veins in other rock types. Collectors of all ages find these as common 'pretty stones'.
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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
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock