mineral

White Quartz (Milky Quartz)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

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

Identified July 27, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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.