mineral
Milky Quartz
Quartz (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2)
Mohs hardness of 7, white to off-white opaque color, vitreous luster when clean, hexagonal/trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity of 2.65.
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness of 7, white to off-white opaque color, vitreous luster when clean, hexagonal/trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity of 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Forms in hydrothermal veins or igneous pegmatites. The white color is caused by microscopic fluid inclusions trapped during the crystal's growth.
Uses & applications
Used in glass making, as an abrasive, in the electronics industry for its piezoelectric properties, and commonly as decorative gravel or landscaping stone.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Milky quartz is the most common variety of quartz found in nature.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its hardness (it scratches glass) and lack of cleavage (it breaks in smooth, curved surfaces). It is ubiquitous worldwide.
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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
Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)
Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)
Metamorphic Rock