Rock Identifier
Milky Quartz (Quartz (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2)) — mineral
mineral

Milky Quartz

Quartz (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs), Color: Cloudy white to translucent, Luster: Vitreous/glassy to waxy, Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs), Color: Cloudy white to translucent, Luster: Vitreous/glassy to waxy, Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Forms from the cooling of silica-rich hydrothermal solutions or magma in veins and pegmatites. It is found in all geological ages and environments.

Uses & applications

Used in glass manufacturing, electronics (due to piezoelectric properties), construction aggregates, and as decorative gravel or gemstone cabochons.

Geological facts

Milky quartz gets its cloudy appearance from microscopic inclusions of liquid or gas trapped during the crystal's growth. It is one of the most common minerals on Earth's crust.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (scratches glass), white color, and lack of cleavage. Often found in quartz veins or as weathered pebbles in riverbeds and soil.