mineral

Milky Quartz

Quartz (Silicon Dioxide - SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to translucent; 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
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified June 30, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Formed through the crystallization of silica-rich hydrothermal solutions or within cooling igneous granitic pegmatites. The white color is caused by microscopic inclusions of fluids or gas trapped during crystal growth.

Uses & applications

Used in glass manufacturing, as an abrasive, in electronics for its piezoelectric properties, as a decorative landscape stone, and occasionally in jewelry for cabochons.

Geological facts

Milky quartz is one of the most common minerals on Earth's crust. It is often found as the 'vein' material that can host gold deposits in orogenic belts.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (it will scratch glass), white color, and lack of cleavage (it breaks in irregular, curvy shards). It is found globally in mountainous terrains and streambeds.