mineral

Quartz pebble

Silicon dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Translucent white to light pink. Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to waxy. Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal (though water-worn here). Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture).

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale
Color: Translucent white to light pink
Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to waxy

Identified April 3, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the crystallization of silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal veins. This specific specimen has been significantly rounded and smoothed by water erosion in a river, stream, or beach environment.

Uses & applications

Common quartz is used in glassmaking, abrasives, and as a component in concrete. In this water-worn form, it is used for decorative landscaping, aquariums, and rock tumbling.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. When it has a pink hue like this, it is often referred to as rose quartz, caused by trace amounts of titanium, iron, or manganese.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (it can scratch glass) and its lack of cleavage. Look for it in stream beds or gravel pits where harder minerals accumulate after softer rocks have eroded away.