mineral

Milky Quartz

Quartz (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Opaque white to translucent; Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Opaque white to translucent
Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to greasy

Identified March 14, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the cooling of silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal veins. The milky appearance is caused by tiny inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth. They can range from Precambrian to recent geological ages.

Uses & applications

Used in the production of glass and ceramics, as an abrasive, and in the electronics industry for its piezoelectric properties. Low-grade specimens are used as garden landscaping or construction aggregate.

Geological facts

Milky Quartz is the most common variety of crystalline quartz. While often overlooked by gem hunters, large 'bull quartz' veins can act as indicator minerals for gold deposits (mother lodes).

Field identification & locations

Identify by its ability to scratch glass and its lack of cleavage planes. It is ubiquitous in riverbeds, mountain trails, and gravel pits worldwide. Collectors should look for unique shapes or associations with other minerals.