mineral
Milky Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White or milky due to microscopic fluid inclusions, Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: Indistinct/Conchoidal fracture, Specific gravity: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White or milky due to microscopic fluid inclusions, Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: Indistinct/Conchoidal fracture, Specific gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins, pegmatites, and igneous rocks through the cooling of silica-rich fluids. Milky quartz is common in many geological environments ranging from Precambrian to recent ages.
Uses & applications
Used in glassmaking, abrasives, as decorative landscaping stone, in construction aggregates, and occasionally as tumbled pocket stones for metaphysical collectors.
Geological facts
The milky white color is caused by millions of tiny bubbles of gas or liquid 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 (will easily scratch glass) and lack of cleavage. It is commonly found in riverbeds, mountains, and as 'white rocks' in gardens worldwide. Collectors look for pieces with distinct crystal faces, though these specimens are tumbled.
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sedimentary
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Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
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Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic