mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

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

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Cloudy white to translucent
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified July 13, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites through the cooling of silica-rich solutions. It is found in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments worldwide and is extremely resistant to weathering.

Uses & applications

Widely used as an abrasive, in the production of glass, ceramics, and electronics (due to piezoelectric properties). Often collected as decorative pocket stones or used in landscaping.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. The 'milky' appearance is caused by tiny fluid inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during the crystal's growth.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its characteristic hardness (will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and translucent white color. It is nearly ubiquitous in mountain ranges and gravel beds globally.