mineral

Quartz Pebble

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to translucent; Luster: Vitreous to waxy (when river-worn); Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Milky white to translucent
Luster: Vitreous to waxy (when river-worn)

Identified June 10, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from cooling silica-rich magma or through hydrothermal veins. This specific specimen is likely a 'river rock' or 'beach pebble,' having been weathered and rounded by water transport over thousands of years.

Uses & applications

Used widely in glass making, electronics (piezoelectric properties), abrasives, and as decorative landscape gravel or semi-precious gemstones (tumbled stones).

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Its name comes from the German word 'Quarz', which has Slavic origins. It is extremely resistant to chemical weathering.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (will scratch glass and steel), lack of cleavage, and smooth rounded surface if found in water bodies. Common globally in riverbeds and coastlines.