mineral

Milky Quartz

Silica (SiO2)

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

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: White to translucent
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified June 19, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Formed through the cooling of silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal veins. The milky appearance is caused by tiny inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.

Uses & applications

Used in glass making, as an abrasive, in the electronics industry for its piezoelectric properties, and as decorative gravel or gemstones.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Milky quartz specifically is white because of microscopic fluid inclusions that have been trapped since the crystal was formed.

Field identification & locations

Identified in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and white cloudy appearance. It is found globally in almost any geological environment.