mineral
Milky Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
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
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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 in hydrothermal veins, pegmatites, and as a primary mineral in igneous rocks like granite. The milky appearance is caused by tiny inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.
Uses & applications
Used as an abrasive, in the production of glass and ceramics, as construction aggregate, and in landscaping. Also popular as a healing crystal or garden decoration.
Geological facts
Quartz is the most abundant mineral in the Earth's continental crust. Milky quartz is often found in large, massive beds and can be a host rock for gold in hydrothermal veins.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its hardness (will scratch glass), white color, and lack of cleavage (it breaks in irregular, curvy shards). Extremely common worldwide in riverbeds and mountainous terrain.
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Schist
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Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
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Mineral/Rock