mineral
Milky Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Opaque white; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Opaque white
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Opaque white; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed through the crystallization of magma or hydrothermal deposition in veins. The milky appearance is caused by tiny inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.
Uses & applications
Used in decorative landscaping, glassmaking, electronics (piezoelectric properties), and as a collector's specimen or for spiritual purposes.
Geological facts
Milky quartz is the most common variety of crystalline quartz. Historically, it was used by many cultures to create tools when flint was unavailable due to its hardness and sharp fracture edges.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its ability to scratch glass and lack of cleavage. It is extremely common in gravel pits, riverbeds, and as a component of many igneous and metamorphic rocks globally.
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Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Sandstone with Mineral Veining or Crust
Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock