Milky Quartz
Quartz (Variety: Milky Quartz) · Mineral Specimen / Decorative Stone
Crystal System
Trigonal crystal system; typically occurs in hexagonal-shaped prisms or massive aggregates like this tumbled/water-worn specimen.
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicate subgroup)
Chemical Formula
SiO2 (Silicon Dioxide)
Formation Process
Primarily Hydrothermal; forms from silica-rich solutions in veins or cavities. It can also form during igneous crystallization in granitic pegmatites.
About This Crystal
An opaque to translucent white variety of quartz. It has a waxy to vitreous luster and a smooth, rounded surface likely from water erosion or mechanical tumbling. It shows visible internal fractures and dark inclusions/surface staining (possibly iron or manganese oxides).
Physical Characteristics
Color: White/Opaque; Streak: White; Cleavage: None; Fracture: Conchoidal (visible in small chips); Specific Gravity: 2.65; Fluorescence: Usually none; Tenacity: Brittle.
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: 1.544–1.553; Birefringence: 0.009; Doubly refractive; milky appearance is caused by microscopic fluid inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Globally abundant; notable sources include Brazil, USA (Arkansas/New York), Madagascar, and Russia. Found in pegmatites, hydrothermal veins, and sedimentary riverbeds.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 7; Toughness: Good; Highly stable and durable for jewelry, though internal fractures (as seen in image) can create weak points upon impact.
Care & Maintenance
Safe to clean with warm soapy water, ultrasonic cleaners, and steam. Highly resistant to chemicals and sunlight. Store separately to avoid scratching softer materials like calcite or fluorite.
Rarity & Value
Common; very low market value for raw or tumbled specimens. Value increases slightly with size or unique inclusions. Often used as decorative gravel or for inexpensive tumbled stones.
Special Characteristics
The 'milkiness' is the primary characteristic, caused by millions of tiny fluid inclusions. Includes dark surface dendrites or mineral spotting in this specific specimen.
Lore & History
Historically used for hardstone carving and ritual tools. In metaphysical traditions, it is often called 'Snow Quartz' and is associated with clarity, calm, and the Crown Chakra. Historically significant as a primary component of many archaeological stone tools.