mineral
Milky Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Mohs hardness 7, milky white to translucent, vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, poor/no cleavage, specific gravity 2.65.
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness 7, milky white to translucent, vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, poor/no cleavage, specific gravity 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Forms in hydrothermal veins, pegmatites, and metamorphic environments from silica-rich fluids over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Used as a raw material for glassmaking, ceramics, crushed stone, abrasives, semi-precious ornamental carvings, and lapidary specimens.
Geological facts
The distinctive milky white color is caused by tiny, microscopic gas or liquid fluid inclusions trapped inside the quartz structure during crystal growth.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its scratch-hardness (scratches glass/steel easily), white to translucent appearance, lack of cleavage, and conchoidal fracture. Extremely common worldwide in granitic and metamorphic terrains.
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Septarian Pebble
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Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
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Sandstone with Mineral Veining or Crust
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