mineral

Milky Quartz

Quartz (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2)

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

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: White to cloudy translucent
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified June 2, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Forms through the cooling of magma or hydrothermal activity in veins. The milky appearance is caused by tiny fluid or gas inclusions trapped during crystal growth.

Uses & applications

Used in jewelry (cabochons), as an abrasive, in glassmaking, and in metaphysical practices as a healing stone.

Geological facts

Milky Quartz is the most common variety of crystalline quartz. The white color is often referred to as 'snow quartz' and is caused by microscopic bubbles of liquid or gas.

Field identification & locations

Identified in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and white cloudy appearance. Extremely common in pegmatites and gold-bearing hydrothermal veins.