mineral
Milky Quartz
Quartz (Silicon Dioxide - SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 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 More mineral →
Explore Milky Quartz in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
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.
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.
