Milky Quartz or Quartzite
Quartz var. Milky Quartz · Mineral Specimen
Crystal System
Trigonal, massive or crystalline habit
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicate)
Chemical Formula
SiO2
Formation Process
Hydrothermal and magmatic processes, forming in veins or pegmatite pockets
About This Crystal
An opaque to translucent grayish-white rough rock specimen with a vitreous to greasy luster, showing uneven fracture and crystalline patches typical of massive quartz.
Physical Characteristics
Color ranges from white to grayish; white streak; no true cleavage, exhibits conchoidal to uneven fracture; specific gravity around 2.65; brittle tenacity; non-magnetic.
Optical Properties
Singly refractive to anomalously doubly refractive, uniaxial positive; refractive index is approximately 1.544 to 1.553; birefringence is weak (0.009).
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Worldwide, commonly found in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 7; good durability and toughness, resistant to scratching by most common household materials.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush; store separately to avoid scratching softer materials; no special chemical sensitivities.
Rarity & Value
Common; low monetary value, primarily collected as a common mineral specimen or used for industrial silica.
Special Characteristics
May exhibit piezoelectric properties under pressure; contains microscopic fluid or gas inclusions causing the milky appearance.
Lore & History
Historically used by various ancient cultures for tools and ornaments; in modern crystal healing, quartz is considered a master healer stone associated with all chakras and amplification of energy (traditional beliefs only).