mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to opaque; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (often found as massive vein quartz); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture).

Hardness: 7
Color: Milky white to opaque
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified July 2, 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: Milky white to opaque; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (often found as massive vein quartz); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture).

Formation & geological history

Forms through the crystallization of silica-rich hydrothermal fluids in veins or pegmatites. It is incredibly common and forms across nearly all geological ages in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments.

Uses & applications

Used in glass making, as an abrasive, in the production of silicon metal for electronics, and widely as garden landscaping or interior decorative stones.

Geological facts

The 'milky' appearance is caused by tiny inclusions of gas and/or liquid trapped during the crystal's growth. It is one of the most abundant minerals on Earth's surface.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (it will scratch glass), its white translucent color, and its lack of cleavage. It is found globally in mountain ranges, riverbeds, and as vein outcroppings.