mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: White to translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: White to translucent
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified May 29, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: White to translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites through the cooling of silica-rich solutions. It occurs in a vast range of geological environments across almost all geological ages.

Uses & applications

Used as an abrasive, in the production of glass and ceramics, as a source for silicon, and in landscaping or as a semi-precious stone in jewelry and carvings.

Geological facts

The milky color is caused by tiny fluid inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth. It is the most common variety of crystalline quartz.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and white cloudy appearance. Common worldwide, especially in mountain ranges and gravel deposits.