mineral

White Quartz (Milky Quartz)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale; Color: Opaque white to translucent; Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale
Color: Opaque white to translucent
Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to greasy

Identified February 7, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the cooling and crystallization of silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal solutions in veins. It is one of the most abundant minerals on Earth and can be found in rocks from virtually any geological age.

Uses & applications

Used in the glassmaking and abrasive industries, as a component in concrete and mortar, as gemstones (when high quality), and widely used in metaphysical collecting or garden landscaping.

Geological facts

Milky quartz gets its white, cloudy appearance from tiny fluid inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during the crystal's growth. It is the most common variety of crystalline quartz found globally.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (it can scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and its characteristic cloudy white 'milk' color. It is commonly found in gravel pits, mountain streams, and as veins in metamorphic or igneous outcrops.

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