mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 7.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Cloud white to translucent; Luster: Vitreous/waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7
Color: Cloud white to translucent
Luster: Vitreous/waxy

Identified May 17, 2026More mineral →

Explore Milky Quartz in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 7.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Cloud white to translucent; Luster: Vitreous/waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed through the cooling of molten rock or by precipitation from hydrothermal veins. It is one of the most common minerals in the Earth's crust, found in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments.

Uses & applications

Used in glassmaking, abrasives, electronics (piezoelectric properties), and as decorative stones or carvings in the lapidary arts.

Geological facts

The 'milky' appearance is caused by tiny fluid inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth. It is the most common variety of crystalline quartz.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and characteristic greasy/vitreous luster. Commonly found in riverbeds and mountainous terrain.