mineral

Milky Quartz

Quartz (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale. Color: White to milky white, often with minor inclusions. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal Structure: Trigonal. Cleavage: None, exhibits conchoidal fracture. Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale
Color: White to milky white, often with minor inclusions
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified July 31, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in hydrothermal veins, pegmatites, and igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks as water-rich fluids cool and precipitate silica over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Used in gemstone collection, decorative items, lapidary work, and sometimes as a minor source of silicon for industrial applications.

Geological facts

Milky quartz is the most common variety of crystalline quartz found on Earth. Its cloudy appearance is caused by microscopic fluid or gas inclusions trapped during crystal growth.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its high hardness (scratches glass), white color, conchoidal fracture, and lack of cleavage. Found worldwide in almost all geological environments.