mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

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

Identified July 3, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Forms from the cooling of magma or precipitation from hydrothermal veins. The white color is caused by tiny inclusions of gas and liquid trapped during crystal growth. Found in many geological environments globally.

Uses & applications

Used in glass making, ceramics, as an abrasive, in the semiconductor industry, and frequently as decorative landscaping stone or for healing crystal collections.

Geological facts

Quartz is the most common mineral found at the Earth's surface. The 'milky' appearance is due to microscopic bubbles of water or CO2 that scatter light, similar to how clouds appear white.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and characteristic white opaque color. It is globally abundant, found in mountains, riverbeds, and beaches.