mineral

Milky Quartz

Quartz (Silicon Dioxide - SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: White to translucent off-white. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal structure: Trigonal/hexagonal. Cleavage: None (conchoidal to uneven fracture). Specific Gravity: ~2.65.

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: White to translucent off-white
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified July 26, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins, pegmatites, and various igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments. Its cloudy white appearance is caused by microscopic fluid inclusions trapped during crystal growth.

Uses & applications

Used in glassmaking, ceramics, abrasives, silicon metal production, construction aggregate, landscape decoration, and mineral collecting.

Geological facts

Milky Quartz is one of the most common mineral varieties on Earth's continental crust. Fluid trapped inside the crystal bubbles can provide scientists with valuable data about the temperature and chemical composition of ancient hydrothermal fluids.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its hardness (scratches glass, cannot be scratched by a steel nail), white/cloudy color, lack of cleavage, and waxy to vitreous luster. Found globally in quartz veins and pegmatite deposits.