White Quartz (Snow Quartz)
Quartz var. Milky/Snow Quartz · Semi-Precious Gemstone / Mineral Specimen
Crystal System
Trigonal; typically found in massive, microcrystalline, or granular habits with no visible external crystal faces in this specimen.
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicate)
Chemical Formula
SiO2
Formation Process
Primarily Hydrothermal; forms from silica-rich aqueous solutions at various temperatures and pressures within crustal veins or pegmatites.
About This Crystal
An opaque to translucent white mineral with a granular or 'snowy' appearance. It exhibits a greasy to vitreous luster on fresh surfaces and a dull/waxy luster on weathered surfaces. This specimen appears as an irregular, rounded fragment with internal cloudiness due to microscopic fluid inclusions.
Physical Characteristics
Color: White/Cloudy. Streak: White. Cleavage: None. Fracture: Conchoidal to uneven. Specific Gravity: 2.65. Diaphaneity: Translucent to opaque. Non-magnetic.
Optical Properties
Uniaxial positive. Refractive Index: 1.544-1.553. Birefringence: 0.009. No pleochroism. Does not show typical fire or play of color.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Found globally; major deposits in Brazil, USA (Arkansas/California), Madagascar, and the Alps in hydrothermal veins.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 7. Extremely durable and stable. It is resistant to chemical weathering and has high toughness due to the lack of cleavage.
Care & Maintenance
Safe to clean with warm soapy water, ultrasonic cleaners, or steam. Very stable under sunlight; can be stored with most other minerals but may scratch softer stones.
Rarity & Value
Common. Generally low value, sold by weight or as inexpensive tumbled stones. Rarity is low; value is determined by size and purity of the white color.
Special Characteristics
Exhibits 'Milky' appearance caused by microscopic inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth. Can be piezoelectric.
Lore & History
Historically used as a 'masking' stone in jewelry. In traditional lore, it is associated with the Crown Chakra and is believed to represent clarity, innocence, and tranquility.