mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

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

Identified July 21, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 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 in hydrothermal veins, pegmatites, and as a primary constituent in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments. Many specimens date back millions of years.

Uses & applications

Used in glassmaking, as an abrasive, in electronics (piezoelectric properties), and frequently as decorative landscaping stone or for metaphysical collecting.

Geological facts

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

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and white cloudy appearance. Common worldwide, especially in areas with granite bedrock or mountain ranges.