mineral
Milky Quartz
Quartz (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to opaque white; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65.
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Milky white to opaque white
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to opaque white; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Formed from silicon-rich hydrothermal veins or through the cooling of silica-saturated magma. Often found in pegmatites and metamorphic environments worldwide.
Uses & applications
Used in glass manufacturing, electronics (piezoelectric properties), abrasives, and as decorative stone or landscaping material. Low-grade specimens are used in road construction.
Geological facts
The milky white appearance is caused by tiny fluid inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth. It is the most common variety of crystalline quartz.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and white color. It is extremely common and found in almost all geological environments.
