Quartz (Vein Quartz/Milky Quartz)
Quartz / Silicon Dioxide · Mineral Specimen / Common Decorative Stone
Crystal System
Trigonal; this specimen exhibits a massive/vein habit with no visible external crystal faces, showing typical conchoidal to irregular fracture.
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicate)
Chemical Formula
SiO2
Formation Process
Hydrothermal; formed from silica-rich fluids cooling within rock fractures. The white, opaque appearance (Milky Quartz) is caused by microscopic fluid inclusions trapped during rapid crystallization.
About This Crystal
Opaque to translucent milky-white mineral with visible banding of grayish-tan host rock (likely sandstone or shale) attached. It features a dull to vitreous luster and an irregular, weathered surface.
Physical Characteristics
Color: White to cream with earthy tan matrix; Streak: White; Cleavage: None (fractures instead); Fracture: Conchoidal; Specific Gravity: 2.65; Fluorescence: Usually inert.
Optical Properties
Uniaxial positive; Refractive Index: 1.544–1.553; exhibit No pleochroism; Opaque to translucent transparency prevents significant light dispersion.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Globally ubiquitous; commonly found in mountainous regions, riverbeds, and as hydrothermal veins in various host rocks.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 7; Very high durability and chemical stability; resistant to most common acids and weathering.
Care & Maintenance
Safe to clean with warm soapy water and soft brushes. Can withstand ultrasonic cleaning. Store away from softer stones to prevent scratching them.
Rarity & Value
Common; extremely high abundance. Low monetary value unless containing rare inclusions or forming exceptional crystals; typically valued as a decorative landscape or collector rock.
Special Characteristics
Shows distinct banding where the quartz vein met the surrounding country rock. Often exhibits piezoelectricity when under mechanical stress.
Lore & History
Historically used for tool making (flint/chert varieties) and ancient decorative carvings. In metaphysical traditions, it is considered a 'master healer' and clear/milky quartz is associated with cleansing and the Crown Chakra.