mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White/Translucent, Luster: Vitreous, Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (Trigonal), Cleavage: None (Conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65

Identified July 21, 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 (Mohs scale), Color: White/Translucent, Luster: Vitreous, Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (Trigonal), Cleavage: None (Conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed through hydrothermal processes, crystallization from magma, and metamorphism of silica-rich rocks; accounts for the white color due to microscopic fluid inclusions trapped during crystal growth.

Uses & applications

Used widely in crystal healing, construction aggregate, glass making, electronics (piezoelectric properties), and as decorative gravel or tumbled stones.

Geological facts

Milky Quartz is the most common variety of crystalline quartz. Its white opacity is caused by tiny bubbles of gas or liquid that were trapped when the crystal was forming millions of years ago.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), waxy to vitreous luster, and lack of cleavage. It is ubiquitous globally, often found in quartz veins and pegmatites.