mineral
Milky Quartz
Quartz (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Opaque white to milky; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Opaque white to milky
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Opaque white to milky; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins or as a constituent of igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. The milky appearance is caused by tiny liquid or gas inclusions trapped during crystal growth.
Uses & applications
Used in glass making, electronics (piezoelectric properties), abrasives, and as decorative stone or landscaping material.
Geological facts
Milky quartz is the most common variety of crystalline quartz. It can sometimes contain minute amounts of gold in hydrothermal vein deposits.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and white opaque color. It is omnipresent in many geological environments globally.
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