White Quartz
Quartz var. Milky Quartz · Mineral Specimen and Semi-Precious Stone
Crystal System
Trigonal, typically forming as a tumbled smooth pebble in this specimen with massive habit
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicates)
Chemical Formula
SiO2
Formation Process
Hydrothermal and pegmatitic formation, crystallizing from silica-rich fluids at moderate to high temperatures and pressures
About This Crystal
A tumbled, smooth, whitish-translucent to opaque pebble with a milky appearance caused by microscopic fluid inclusions trapped during formation
Physical Characteristics
White body color with a white streak, lack of distinct cleavage, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity around 2.65, brittle tenacity, and vitreous to greasy luster on polished surfaces
Optical Properties
Singly refractive or uniaxial positive with a refractive index of approximately 1.544 to 1.553, showing low birefringence and no notable pleochroism
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Found globally; major deposits in Brazil, Madagascar, the United States, and the Alps, typically forming in pegmatites, hydrothermal veins, and metamorphic environments
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 7, making it durable and resistant to scratching, with good wearability for jewelry despite lacking cleavage
Care & Maintenance
Can be easily cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft brush; highly durable and stable against household chemicals and sunlight
Rarity & Value
Extremely common and widely distributed globally, resulting in a very low price range, usually sold as inexpensive tumbling rough or polished stones
Special Characteristics
Contains microscopic liquid and gas-filled inclusions that scatter light, creating the characteristic milky white turbidity
Lore & History
Historically used across various ancient cultures for tools and ornaments; in modern crystal healing, it is traditionally associated with clarity, purification, and the Crown Chakra, though these are cultural beliefs rather than scientific claims