Milky Quartz
Quartz var. Milky Quartz (alpha-quartz) · Semi-Precious Gemstone / Mineral Specimen
Crystal System
Trigonal; this specimen is polished into a spherical (ball) habit, though naturally it forms hexagonal prisms with rhombohedral terminations.
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicate)
Chemical Formula
SiO2 (Silicon Dioxide) with minute inclusions of fluid or gas
Formation Process
Primarily Magmatic or Hydrothermal; forms from the cooling of silica-rich fluids. The 'milky' appearance is caused by tiny bubbles of gas and/or liquid (fluid inclusions) trapped during the crystal's rapid growth.
About This Crystal
A translucent to near-opaque white sphere measuring approximately 20mm in diameter. It displays a waxy to vitreous luster and a uniform 'snowy' white color caused by microscopic fluid inclusions that scatter light.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Milky white; Streak: White; Cleavage: None (indistinct); Fracture: Conchoidal; Specific Gravity: 2.65; Fluorescence: Usually inert/none; Tenacity: Brittle.
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: 1.544-1.553; Birefringence: 0.009; Optical Character: Uniaxial positive; Diaphaneity: Translucent; Luster: Vitreous when polished.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Found globally; major commercial sources include Brazil, Madagascar, USA (Arkansas), and the Alps. This specimen's specific origin is unknown but typically forms in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 7; Toughness: Good (no cleavage); very durable for jewelry and decorative use; stable under most chemical exposure except Hydrofluoric acid.
Care & Maintenance
Safe to clean with warm soapy water, ultrasonic cleaners, and steam cleaners. Store away from harder stones like Topaz or Sapphire to avoid scratches. Resistant to fading in sunlight.
Rarity & Value
Common; very abundant worldwide. Value is low to moderate, determined primarily by the quality of the polish, roundness (for spheres), and size. Often used as an affordable decorative material.
Special Characteristics
Displays 'Tyndall scattering' where light is scattered by internal microscopic inclusions, creating the milky opacity. Some specimens may show very faint chatoyancy or asterism if fibrous inclusions are present.
Lore & History
Historically used in Greek culture as 'krustallos' (ice), believed to be permanently frozen ice. In crystal healing lore, it is often associated with the Crown Chakra and viewed as a stone of clarity, purity, and information storage.