mineral
Milky Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White to translucent milky white, Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to greasy, Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White to translucent milky white, Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to greasy, Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Forms from the crystallization of hydrothermal veins or during the cooling of igneous magma bodies and metamorphic processes. It is found in a wide variety of geological environments ranging from Precambrian to Holocene.
Uses & applications
Used in the production of glass, ceramics, and electronics (due to piezoelectric properties). Often used as a landscaping stone, in construction aggregates, or as decorative specimens for mineral collectors.
Geological facts
The milky white color is caused by tiny inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during the crystal's growth. It is the most common variety of crystalline quartz found on Earth’s surface.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its hardness (it can scratch glass and steel), white color, and lack of cleavage. It is found globally in mountains, riverbeds, and as part of granite outcrops.
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous