Milky Quartz
Quartz var. Milky Quartz (alpha-quartz) · Mineral Specimen / Decorative Stone
Crystal System
Trigonal (Hexagonal-R); typically massive or macrocrystalline with rhombohedral and hexagonal prism faces in well-formed crystals.
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicates)
Chemical Formula
SiO2
Formation Process
Primarily Hydrothermal (crystallizing from silica-rich fluids in veins) or Igneous (from cooling magma in pegmatites), often under high pressure.
About This Crystal
Opaque to translucent white or light beige appearance. The 'milky' look is caused by microscopic inclusions of gas or liquid (fluid inclusions) trapped during growth. Large massive habit with vitreous to waxy luster and conchoidal surfaces.
Physical Characteristics
Color: White to off-white; Streak: White; Cleavage: Indistinct/None; Fracture: Conchoidal to uneven; Specific Gravity: 2.65; Fluorescence: Usually inert but can show weak green or yellow under UV. Piezoelectric.
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: 1.544–1.553; Birefringence: 0.009 (Uniaxial positive); Doubly refractive; generally lacks dispersion or pleochroism due to opacity.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Worldwide; highly abundant in Brazil, USA (Arkansas), Madagascar, and the Alps. Found in various geological settings.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness: 7; Toughness: Good; Highly stable against heat and chemicals; Excellent durability for jewelry or carving.
Care & Maintenance
Safe to clean with warm soapy water, ultrasonic cleaners, and steam. Very resistant to scratching; store away from softer materials and harsh acids (except hydrofluoric acid).
Rarity & Value
Common; Very high abundance globally. Low market value compared to clear quartz, though large decorative carvings or high-quality macro-crystalline clusters can hold moderate value.
Special Characteristics
Contains numerous microscopic fluid inclusions; displays piezoelectricity (generates electric charge under mechanical stress) and thermoluminescence.
Lore & History
Historically used for tools and ornaments across all ancient cultures. In metaphysical traditions, it is often called the 'Snow Quartz' and is associated with clarity, innocence, and the Crown Chakra.