mineral
Milky Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: cloudy white or opaque, Luster: vitreous (glassy) to greasy, Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal), Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: cloudy white or opaque, Luster: vitreous (glassy) to greasy, Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal), Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Forms in hydrothermal veins, pegmatites, and as a primary mineral in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. Its characteristic white color is caused by microscopic inclusions of fluid (gas or liquid) trapped during crystal growth.
Uses & applications
Used in glassmaking, ceramics, electronics (as a silicon source), and widely used in jewelry (tumbled stones, beads) and landscaping.
Geological facts
Milky quartz is one of the most common varieties of quartz on Earth. The 'milkiness' comes from tiny gas or liquid bubbles rather than impurities, which scatter light like fog in the air.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its white, waxy, or glassy appearance and its ability to scratch glass easily. It is found globally, particularly in areas with active or old geological mountain-building activity.
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Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Sandstone with Mineral Veining or Crust
Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic