mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to translucent with iron staining (yellow/brown); 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 translucent with iron staining (yellow/brown)
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified July 5, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms primarily in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites through the cooling of silica-rich hydrothermal fluids or magma. This specimen appears to be 'bull quartz' from a vein.

Uses & applications

Used in glass manufacturing, electronics (due to piezoelectric properties), construction aggregate, and as a decorative stone in landscaping or lapidary work.

Geological facts

The milky white color is caused by millions of microscopic inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during the crystal's formation. It is the most common variety of crystalline quartz on Earth.

Field identification & locations

Identified in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and white color. Frequently found in mountainous regions or as cobbles in riverbeds. Often associated with gold in quartz veins.