mineral
Milky Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 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)
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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.
