mineral
Quartz Pebble
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White to off-white, Luster: Vitreous to waxy, Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal (though rounded), Specific gravity: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White to off-white, Luster: Vitreous to waxy, Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal (though rounded), Specific gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed through the cooling of silica-rich magma or precipitation from hydrothermal veins. This specific specimen has been significantly rounded by fluvial (water) erosion over long periods.
Uses & applications
Used in glassmaking, electronics (piezoelectric properties), abrasives, and as decorative gravel. Small pebbles like this are common in landscaping.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals in Earth's crust. It is highly resistant to chemical and physical weathering, which is why it often remains as pebbles after other minerals have eroded.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its hardness (will scratch glass) and lack of cleavage. Look for it in stream beds, beaches, and glacial deposits worldwide.
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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)
Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)
Metamorphic Rock
![Biotite Schist (Biotite-rich Schist [K(Mg,Fe)3AlSi3O10(F,OH)2]) — metamorphic](https://media.rock.id/9ca564b5-bc87-402b-965a-69b21f9aa6bf-thumbnail.jpg)
Biotite Schist
Biotite-rich Schist [K(Mg,Fe)3AlSi3O10(F,OH)2]
metamorphic
![Green Apatite on Albite (Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]) — mineral](https://media.rockidentification.com/2391a63f-fb20-47d5-af9a-2035851eb32e-thumbnail.jpg)
Green Apatite on Albite
Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]
mineral