mineral
White Quartz (Milky Quartz)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Pale translucent white to opaque milky white. Luster: Vitreous to waxy. Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific gravity: ~2.65.
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Pale translucent white to opaque milky white
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Pale translucent white to opaque milky white. Luster: Vitreous to waxy. Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific gravity: ~2.65.
Formation & geological history
Forms in hydrothermal veins, pegmatites, metamorphic environments, and sedimentary gravel beds. Milky opacity is caused by microscopic fluid inclusions trapped during growth.
Uses & applications
Popular in tumbled stone collections, lapidary arts, decorative landscaping, quartz glass manufacture, and crystal healing practices.
Geological facts
Milky quartz is one of the most common mineral varieties on Earth. The milky appearance is due to millions of tiny gas and liquid bubbles trapped as the crystal formed millions of years ago.
Field identification & locations
Can be identified in the field by its hardness (scratches glass easily), lack of cleavage, smooth tumbled surface, and pale off-white translucency. Widely available around the globe.
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