mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

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

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

Identified July 2, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins or pegmatites as silicon-rich solutions cool. The milky appearance is caused by tiny inclusions of liquid or gas trapped during crystal growth. Found in all types of geological environments globally.

Uses & applications

Used in glass making, abrasive manufacturing, electronics (due to piezoelectric properties), and as an ornamental stone in landscaping or jewelry.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Milky quartz specifically gets its cloudiness from micro-cavities containing fluids that were present at its birth millions of years ago.

Field identification & locations

Identified in the field by its hardness (will scratch glass), white color, and lack of cleavage planes. It is often found as veins cutting through other rock types like granite or schist.