mineral

Quartz Pebble

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Tan, beige, or off-white with minor impurities. Luster: Dull to waxy (weathered surface). Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal). Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale
Color: Tan, beige, or off-white with minor impurities
Luster: Dull to waxy (weathered surface)

Identified April 12, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the crystallization of silica-rich fluids in hydrothermal vents or as a primary mineral in igneous rocks. This specific specimen has been significantly rounded and smoothed by mechanical weathering in high-energy environments like a riverbed or shoreline.

Uses & applications

Used as an abrasive, in glass making, and in construction as gravel. Polished pebbles are used for garden landscaping, aquarium decor, and metaphysical collections.

Geological facts

Quartz is the most abundant and varied mineral on Earth's surface. Rounded pebbles like this one are often referred to as 'river rocks' and can take thousands of years to reach this level of smoothness.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (it should easily scratch glass) and lack of cleavage. It is commonly found in river deposits, beaches, and glacial till globally.