Milky Quartz
Quartz var. Milky Quartz · Mineral Specimen and Decorative Stone
Crystal System
Trigonal, massive or blocky habit with prominent fracture surfaces
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicate)
Chemical Formula
SiO2
Formation Process
Hydrothermal veins, pegmatitic environments, and igneous cooling processes under high pressure and temperature
About This Crystal
A robust, chunky, opaque to translucent white quartz specimen featuring a milky white coloration caused by microscopic fluid or gas inclusions trapped during crystal growth
Physical Characteristics
White body color with a white streak, vitreous to greasy luster, conchoidal fracture, no true cleavage, specific gravity of approximately 2.65, brittle tenacity
Optical Properties
Uniaxial positive optical character, refractive index of 1.544-1.553, strong birefringence of 0.009, generally opaque to translucent due to abundant micro-inclusions
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Found worldwide; notable deposits in Brazil, Madagascar, the United States, and the Alps
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 7, good durability, resistant to scratching by most common materials, lacks cleavage making it structurally tough
Care & Maintenance
Easily cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft brush; safe from fading in sunlight and resistant to most household chemicals
Rarity & Value
Extremely common mineral worldwide; low to moderate economic value depending on specimen size and aesthetics
Special Characteristics
Contains dense microscopic liquid or gas-filled vacuoles that scatter light to create the signature milky-white appearance
Lore & History
Often regarded in modern crystal healing as a stone for calming the mind, purity, and spiritual clarity, though these remain traditional beliefs rather than scientific claims