mineral

Quartz (Beach Pebble)

Quartz (Silicon Dioxide - SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to translucent; Luster: Vitreous/waxy when wet; Crystal structure: Trigonal (though lost in rounded pebbles); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale
Color: Milky white to translucent
Luster: Vitreous/waxy when wet

Identified March 21, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from molten magma or hydrothermal veins. This specific specimen has been weather-eroded and tumbled by wave action in a marine environment, typically occurring over thousands of years.

Uses & applications

Used in glassmaking, electronics (piezoelectric properties), and construction as aggregate. Rounded beach quartz is popular for decorative landscaping, jewelry (wire wrapping), and aquarium decor.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Milky quartz gets its white color from microscopic fluid inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (it can scratch glass) and lack of cleavage. Found on beaches worldwide, particularly in glacial or volcanic regions. Collectors look for high translucency or unique shapes.

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