mineral

Quartz Pebble (Citrine or Iron-Stained)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Yellow-orange to honey brown; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (Trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Yellow-orange to honey brown
Luster: Vitreous to waxy

Identified June 9, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Yellow-orange to honey brown; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (Trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Part of a larger quartz vein formed from hydrothermal activity or cooling magma. This specific piece has been water-worn into a rounded pebble shape over thousands of years in a riverbed or alluvial deposit.

Uses & applications

Used as a gemstone (if high clarity), in landscaping, as an abrasive, and in the manufacturing of glass and precision electronics.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Specimens with this specific orange-yellow hue are often called 'Citrine' if the color is from heat or 'Ferruginous Quartz' if the color is a surface stain from iron oxides.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its ability to scratch glass and lack of cleavage. It is commonly found in stream beds or gravel pits. Collectors look for clarity and intensity of color.

Other mineral specimens

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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Schist

Metamorphic

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