White Quartz
Quartz var. Milky Quartz · Semi-Precious Gemstone / Mineral Specimen
Crystal System
Trigonal, typically forming prismatic crystals, massive, or tumbled as in this specimen
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicate)
Chemical Formula
SiO2
Formation Process
Igneous, hydrothermal, and metamorphic environments, crystallizing from silica-rich solutions at varying temperatures and pressures
About This Crystal
Tumbled stone with a smooth, polished surface, translucent to opaque body, milky white coloration, and internal fractures creating a fractured, cloudy appearance
Physical Characteristics
White to clear body color, white streak, no true cleavage, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity around 2.65, brittle tenacity, exhibits piezoelectricity
Optical Properties
Uniaxial positive, refractive index of 1.544-1.553, birefringence of 0.009, doubly refractive, generally non-pleochroic
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Worldwide distribution, notably Brazil, Madagascar, USA, and the Alps
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 7, good durability and toughness, resistant to scratching by most common materials, excellent for everyday jewelry
Care & Maintenance
Easy to care for, clean with warm soapy water, safe for ultrasonic cleaners, store away from harder stones to prevent scratching
Rarity & Value
Very common and widely available, low to moderate market value depending on size and clarity
Special Characteristics
May exhibit weak phosphorescence or fluorescence under specific UV lighting, highly common internal inclusion networks producing frosted or milky effects
Lore & History
Historically used across many cultures for clarity of mind and spiritual purification, associated primarily with the crown chakra in modern crystal healing traditions