
mineral
Milky Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: White to cloudy translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 (Mohs scale)
- Color
- White to cloudy translucent
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: White to cloudy translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed through the cooling of silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal veins. The cloudy appearance is caused by tiny inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.
Uses & applications
Used in glassmaking, abrasives, jewelry (as cabochons or carvings), and as a gemstone for collectors or metaphysical purposes.
Geological facts
Milky quartz is the most common variety of crystalline quartz. It is often found in the same veins as gold and other valuable minerals.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and typical milky-white appearance. Often found in quartz veins and as pebbles in riverbeds.
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous