mineral

Quartz (Milky or Cloudy Quartz)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

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

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

Identified June 25, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Translucent white to milky; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; 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 and can be found in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments.

Uses & applications

Used in glass making, electronics (piezoelectric properties), abrasives, construction as a filler, and for lapidary/collector purposes.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Its milky appearance is caused by tiny inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (it will easily scratch glass and stainless steel) and its lack of cleavage. Found worldwide, commonly in mountain ranges and riverbeds.