mineral

Milky Quartz

Quartz (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Opaque white to translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

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

Identified July 9, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Opaque white to translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed from the crystallization of silica-rich hydrothermal fluids in veins or as a late-stage mineral in igneous pegmatites. It is found in geological environments ranging from Precambrian to recent ages.

Uses & applications

Used as a source of silicon for electronics, an abrasive in sandpaper, a component in glassmaking, and frequently collected as a decorative mineral specimen.

Geological facts

The milky white color is caused by millions of tiny fluid inclusions of gas and liquids trapped during the crystal's growth. It is the most common variety of crystalline quartz.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its ability to scratch glass, its white 'cloudy' appearance, and lack of cleavage. It is ubiquitous globally, often found as 'float' in fields or as veins in mountain outcrops.