mineral

Milky Quartz

Crystalline Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Opaque white to creamy; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Opaque white to creamy
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified July 20, 2026More mineral →

Explore Milky Quartz in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Opaque white to creamy; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed from hydrothermal veins or late-stage igneous crystallization; the white color is caused by microscopic fluid inclusions of gas and/or liquid trapped during crystal growth.

Uses & applications

Used in glass making, abrasive materials, electronics (as a source of silicon), and as decorative landscaping stone or collectibles.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Milky quartz is often found in massive form rather than distinct crystals.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its white color, inability to be scratched by steel, and lack of cleavage planes. It is found globally in many geological environments, especially in mountain ranges.