Mineral

Yellow Quartz Pebble

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Pale yellow to off-white; Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to waxy when water-worn; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: Pale yellow to off-white
Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to waxy when water-worn

Identified March 21, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids or within igneous intrusions. This specific specimen is a 'river stone' or 'beach pebble,' meaning it has been weathered and smoothed by water transport over decades or centuries.

Uses & applications

Used primarily as decorative landscaping stone, in aquarium gravel, or as a tumble-stone for beginner rock collectors. Industrial uses include glassmaking and electronics (as silica source).

Geological facts

Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth's continental crust. If the yellow hue is natural and deeply saturated throughout, it is called Citrine, but common river pebbles usually get their tint from iron oxide staining or impurities.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (it should easily scratch glass) and lack of cleavage. Common in riverbeds, beaches, and glacial till worldwide. For collectors, look for clarity or unique internal fractures.