Milky Quartz
Quartz (Variety: Milky Quartz) · Mineral Specimen / Semi-Precious Gemstone
Crystal System
Trigonal; typically occurs in massive or prismatic habits, often with pyramidal terminations
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicate)
Chemical Formula
SiO2 (Silicon Dioxide) with fluid or gas inclusions
Formation Process
Primarily Hydrothermal; forms from silica-rich fluids in rock cavities at medium to high temperatures. The cloudiness is caused by trapped microscopic fluid inclusions during crystallization.
About This Crystal
The specimen exhibits a characteristic white, cloudy, or 'milky' appearance. It is translucent to opaque with a predominately vitreous (glassy) to greasy luster. The surface shows a slightly granular, sugary texture in some areas and a fractured, crystalline habit in others.
Physical Characteristics
Color: White to off-white; Streak: White; Cleavage: None (poor/indistinct); Fracture: Conchoidal; Specific Gravity: 2.65; Fluorescence: Usually inert but can show weak green or yellow under UV.
Optical Properties
Uniaxial positive; Refractive Index: 1.544 - 1.553; Birefringence: 0.009; No pleochroism. The opacity is due to light scattering by internal inclusions.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Globally abundant; major sources include Brazil, USA (Arkansas/New York), and Madagascar. Found in pegmatites and hydrothermal veins.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 7; Very durable for jewelry and decorative use; resistant to chemical weathering but can be brittle due to lack of cleavage.
Care & Maintenance
Extremely stable; can be cleaned with warm soapy water, ultrasonic cleaners, or steam. Avoid high thermal shock, though it is generally heat resistant.
Rarity & Value
Common; very low financial value per specimen. Value is determined more by crystal size, aesthetic form, or associated minerals than rarity.
Special Characteristics
Features fluid and gas inclusions (enhvdros) at a microscopic level. It occasionally shows 'phantom' growth lines where the crystallization was interrupted.
Lore & History
Historically used for carved seals and tools across ancient cultures. In metaphysical traditions, it is often called the 'Snow Quartz' and is associated with clarity, innocence, and stabilizing the crown chakra.