mineral

Quartz Pebble

Quartz (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pinkish-white, translucent; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: Indistinct/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Pinkish-white, translucent
Luster: Vitreous to waxy

Identified June 13, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pinkish-white, translucent; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: Indistinct/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Quartz is one of the most common minerals in the Earth's crust. This rounded pebble was likely formed through erosion and water transport in a river or coastal environment, where tumbling smoothed its edges over long periods of time.

Uses & applications

Common quartz pebbles are used in landscaping, as aggregate in construction, and occasionally for lapidary work if they have high clarity or unique colors.

Geological facts

Quartz is chemically and physically very resistant to weathering. It is the primary component of most sand found in temperate coastal and river environments.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (will scratch glass) and lack of cleavage. This specific specimen shows rounding typical of alluvial deposits. Found globally in almost all geological settings.