mineral
Milky Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White to translucent milky white, Luster: Vitreous, Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White to translucent milky white, Luster: Vitreous, Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids cooling in veins or as a late-stage crystallization in igneous rocks like granite. Common in all geological ages.
Uses & applications
Used as a gemstone, in glassmaking, as an abrasive, and in the production of silicon for electronics and solar cells.
Geological facts
The milky appearance is caused by tiny inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth. It is one of the most common minerals on Earth's crust.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and characteristic white waxy luster. Found worldwide in massive outcrops and hydrothermal veins.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
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
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous