mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: White to pale pink/gray; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: White to pale pink/gray
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified July 18, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: White to pale pink/gray; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Forms in hydrothermal veins or as a constituent of igneous rocks like granite. It crystallizes from silica-rich fluids deep within the Earth's crust across various geological periods.

Uses & applications

Used in glass manufacturing, as a source of silicon for electronics, in construction as an abrasive or filler, and for ornamental purposes/collecting.

Geological facts

Milky quartz gets its cloudy appearance from tiny fluid inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth. It is the most common variety of crystalline quartz.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its ability to scratch glass and lack of cleavage. Often found in riverbeds, mountain ranges, and near granite outcrops. It is nearly ubiquitous in continental crust.