mineral
Milky Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White to translucent, Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal Structure: Trigonal, Cleavage: None (Conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White to translucent, Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal Structure: Trigonal, Cleavage: None (Conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins and igneous intrusions. The milky appearance is caused by microscopic fluid inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.
Uses & applications
Used in glass making, abrasive blasting, electronics (piezoelectric properties), and as a landscape stone or collector's mineral.
Geological facts
Milky quartz is the most common variety of crystalline quartz. Its white color is due to millions of tiny bubbles trapped inside the mineral lattice.
Field identification & locations
Commonly found in gravel pits, riverbeds, and as veins in metamorphic rocks. Identified by its ability to scratch glass and its lack of cleavage.
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Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous