mineral

Quartz Vein / Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, milky white to translucent color, vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, lack of true cleavage, and specific gravity of 2.65.

Identified July 28, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, milky white to translucent color, vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, lack of true cleavage, and specific gravity of 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Formed through hydrothermal processes where silica-rich fluids precipitate quartz within fractures and faults in country rock, often occurring globally in various geological settings across multiple eras.

Uses & applications

Used in the manufacturing of glass, ceramics, abrasives, electronic components, and as decorative stone or in crystal healing and specimen collecting.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals in Earth's continental crust. Milky quartz gets its characteristic cloudy appearance from microscopic fluid inclusions trapped during crystal growth.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified in the field by its high hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and conchoidal fracture. Commonly found protruding as veins in eroded rock faces.