mineral
Milky Quartz
Quartz (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: White to translucent; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- White to translucent
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: White to translucent; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed from the cooling of silica-rich hydrothermal veins or magma. Its milky appearance is caused by microscopic fluid inclusions trapped during crystal growth. Found in all geological ages.
Uses & applications
Used in glassmaking, abrasives, electronics (piezoelectric properties), and as a gemstone or decorative landscape stone.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Milky quartz is the most common variety of quartz found in nature.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its hardness (cannot be scratched by a steel knife), glassy luster when clean, and lack of cleavage. Often found as veins in host rocks or as rounded pebbles in stream beds.
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