mineral
Milky Quartz
Quartz (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: White, translucent to opaque. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal structure: Trigonal (often found as massive aggregates). Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: 2.65.
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- White, translucent to opaque
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: White, translucent to opaque. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal structure: Trigonal (often found as massive aggregates). Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the crystallization of silica-rich hydrothermal fluids in veins or as a major constituent in igneous and metamorphic rocks. Milky color is caused by microscopic inclusions of fluids or gas trapped during crystal growth.
Uses & applications
Used in glassmaking, abrasives, silicon production, and electronics. Also popular for landscaping, lapidary work like tumbled stones, and as metaphysical specimens.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Milky quartz specifically gets its appearance from 'ghostly' pockets of liquids and gases that scatter light.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and waxy/vitreous luster. Found globally in almost every geological environment, especially mountain ranges and riverbeds.
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