mineral

Quartz Pebble

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Translucent yellowish-white; Luster: Vitreous/Waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline); Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: Translucent yellowish-white
Luster: Vitreous/Waxy

Identified May 26, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Translucent yellowish-white; Luster: Vitreous/Waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline); Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed from silica-rich fluids in hydrothermal veins or as a primary constituent in igneous rocks. This specific specimen is a water-worn river pebble, smoothed by mechanical erosion over thousands of years.

Uses & applications

Used in glass manufacturing, electronics (piezoelectric properties), and commonly as decorative gravel or tumbled stones in jewelry and 'worry stones'.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Its name comes from the German word 'quarz', which originally meant 'hard'.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its ability to scratch glass and lack of cleavage. Commonly found in riverbeds, beaches, and mountain runoff areas globally. This specimen shows typical 'clouding' from microscopic fluid inclusions.