mineral

White Quartz Pebble

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to opaque; Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal (though massive in this pebble form); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Milky white to opaque
Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to waxy

Identified March 29, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids or within igneous pegmatites. This specific specimen has been rounded and smoothed by 'fluvial' or 'aeolian' erosion, likely from a riverbed or beach environment. Quartz can be from any geological age, ranging from billions of years old to relatively modern deposits.

Uses & applications

Used in landscaping (decorative gravel), glass manufacturing, as an abrasive, and sometimes in low-end jewelry or as 'worry stones' for collectors.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Its 'milky' appearance is caused by tiny fluid inclusions of gas and/or liquid trapped during crystal growth.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its inability to be scratched by a steel knife (hardness 7) and its smooth, water-worn texture. Commonly found in riverbeds, beaches, and glacial till worldwide. A great starter specimen for kids to learn about erosion.