mineral
White Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: White to milky white. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal structure: Trigonal. Cleavage: None, exhibits conchoidal fracture. Specific gravity: 2.65.
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- White to milky white
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: White to milky white. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal structure: Trigonal. Cleavage: None, exhibits conchoidal fracture. Specific gravity: 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Forms in a wide variety of geological environments, most commonly in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. It is a major constituent of pegmatites and hydrothermal veins.
Uses & applications
Used in glassmaking, electronics, oscillators, abrasives, and as a semi-precious gemstone or crystal specimen in jewelry and decor.
Geological facts
Milky quartz gets its white color from microscopic fluid inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth. It is one of the most abundant minerals on Earth's continental crust.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and conchoidal fracture. Found worldwide in nearly every geological setting.
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary