Milky Quartz
Quartz (variety Milky Quartz) · Semi-Precious Gemstone / Mineral Specimen
Crystal System
Trigonal symmetry; as a tumbled stone, it appears as an irregular, rounded, or sub-angular mass. Naturally forms in hexagonal prisms with pyramid-like terminations.
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicates / Framework Silicates)
Chemical Formula
SiO2 (Silicon Dioxide)
Formation Process
Primarily Hydrothermal or Igneous. It crystallizes from silica-rich fluids in veins or cavities within rocks during the cooling of magma or through metamorphic fluid circulation.
About This Crystal
A semi-opaque to translucent white quartz. The milky appearance is caused by tiny fluid inclusions (gas or liquid) trapped during the crystal's growth. It displays a vitreous (glassy) to waxy luster when polished.
Physical Characteristics
Color: White to off-white; Streak: White; Cleavage: Indistinct/None; Fracture: Conchoidal; Specific Gravity: 2.65; Fluorescence: Usually none, though some may show faint yellow/white under UV.
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: 1.544–1.553; Birefringence: 0.009 (uniaxial positive); Low dispersion; No pleochroism.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Found globally; major deposits in Brazil, Madagascar, USA, and the Alps. Formed in hydrothermal veins and pegmatitic environments.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 7; Highly durable; Good toughness for jewelry; stable against most household chemicals except hydrofluoric acid.
Care & Maintenance
Resilient stone. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic and steam cleaning are generally safe unless the stone has significant internal fractures.
Rarity & Value
Common; very abundant globally. Low price range, often sold by the pound or as inexpensive tumbled pocket stones. Generally untreated as it is naturally abundant.
Special Characteristics
Features a 'milky' turbidity due to microscopic fluid inclusions. May show 'phantom' layers and occasionally contains rutilated or tourmalinated inclusions in larger specimens.
Lore & History
Historically used in jewelry and ornamentation since antiquity. In metaphysical lore, it is believed to represent purity and clarity, often called the 'Snow Quartz' or 'Wisdom Stone', associated with the Crown Chakra.