mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 7 Mohs; Color: White to translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 Mohs
Color: White to translucent
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified July 6, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 Mohs; Color: White to translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Forms through the crystallization of silica-rich hydrothermal fluids in veins or as a late-stage mineral in igneous pegmatites. It can be found across all geological ages.

Uses & applications

Used in glass making, abrasive manufacturing, electronics (due to piezoelectric properties), and as a landscaping or decorative stone.

Geological facts

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

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and white 'milky' appearance. It is ubiquitous in mountainous regions and riverbeds worldwide.