mineral
Quartz (Milky or White Quartz)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, white to milky translucent color, vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, and no true cleavage. Specific gravity is approximately 2.65.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, white to milky translucent color, vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, and no true cleavage. Specific gravity is approximately 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Forms in a wide variety of geological environments, most commonly crystallized from silica-rich hydrothermal veins, pegmatites, and igneous rocks like granite, as well as weathering out into sedimentary deposits.
Uses & applications
Used in gemstone and lapidary work for cabochons or small carvings, as well as industrial applications, glassmaking, and mineral specimen collecting.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals on Earth's continental crust. Milky quartz gets its white color from microscopic fluid inclusions trapped during crystal growth.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its high hardness (scratches glass) and conchoidal fracture. Common worldwide in riverbeds, beaches, and quartz veins.
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