mineral

Quartz (Milky/Bull Quartz)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Translucent white to milky; Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Translucent white to milky
Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to greasy

Identified February 13, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Translucent white to milky; Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Formed through the cooling of silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal veins. It is one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth's crust, found in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments across all geological ages.

Uses & applications

Used in glassmaking, abrasives, foundry sand, and as a source of silicon for electronics. In low-quality rough form, it is used for gravel and landscaping; higher quality specimens are used for jewelry (cabochons) or carving.

Geological facts

Milky quartz gets its white color from tiny pocket inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during the crystal's growth. It is the most common variety of crystalline quartz.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its ability to scratch glass, its lack of cleavage (it breaks into irregular, curved shards), and its waxy or glassy appearance. It is found globally in pegmatites and mountain ranges.

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