mineral

Milky quartz

Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically white to translucent with a vitreous-to-waxy luster; Mohs hardness 7, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and a trigonal crystal structure. The specimen appears massive and irregular rather than well-crystallized.

Identified September 6, 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

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich fluids crystallize in veins, cavities, and igneous or metamorphic rocks; individual crystals may span a wide range of geological ages, commonly Paleozoic to recent. Its cloudy appearance results from microscopic inclusions, fractures, or fluid pockets.

Uses & applications

Used as a silica source in glass, ceramics, and engineered stone; attractive pieces are collected or used decoratively, though this rough fragment has little jewelry value.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and a major component of granite, sandstone, and many metamorphic rocks.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its white translucent color, glassy sheen, lack of cleavage, hardness sufficient to scratch ordinary glass, and conchoidal fracture. Common localities include Brazil, Madagascar, the Alps, and quartz veins worldwide.