mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

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

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

Identified July 14, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the cooling of silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal veins. The milky appearance is caused by microscopic inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth. They are found in geological environments ranging from ancient Precambrian shields to modern riverbeds.

Uses & applications

Used as a source of silicon for semiconductors, glass making, abrasives, and as decorative stone in landscaping or low-cost jewelry/tumbled stones.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Milky quartz is the most common variety of quartz and can often contain traces of gold in hydrothermal vein deposits.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its ability to scratch glass, its white color, and its lack of cleavage planes (breaks like glass). It is found globally in almost all rock types and river gravels.