mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

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

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

Identified July 11, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Formed from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids cooling in veins or as a late-stage crystallization in igneous pegmatites. It is found in a wide variety of geological environments across many eons.

Uses & applications

Used in glass manufacturing, as a source of silicon for electronics, in landscaping, and as decorative stone or jewelry.

Geological facts

Milky quartz gets its cloudy appearance from minute fluid inclusions of gas and/or liquid trapped during crystal growth. It is one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth's crust.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and white color. It is commonly found in gravel pits, mountain ranges, and near volcanic sites.