mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

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

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

Identified June 15, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Forms in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments. Typically crystallizes from magma or hydrothermal cooling in veins and pegmatites over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Used in electronics, watchmaking (piezoelectric properties), glass manufacturing, grit for sandblasting, and as decorative gravel or low-cost gemstones/beads.

Geological facts

The milky white color is caused by tiny inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during the crystal's growth. It is one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth's crust.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (it can scratch glass), its white waxy appearance, and lack of cleavage. Commonly found in mountain ranges, riverbeds, and as veins in larger granite outcrops.