Mineral

White Quartz Pebbles

Quartz (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2)

Hardness: 7.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7
Color: Milky white to translucent
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified April 22, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 7.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed through hydrothermal processes or during the final stages of cooling in igneous intrusions (pegmatites). These specimens appear to be water-worn or mechanically tumbled pebbles from river deposits or sedimentary conglomerate break-ups.

Uses & applications

Used widely in landscaping, filtration systems, glass manufacturing, electronics (piezoelectric properties), and as decorative gravel. Lower grade pieces are used in construction aggregate.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. These specific 'milky' varieties get their color from tiny inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its ability to scratch glass and lack of cleavage. It is extremely common in riverbeds, beaches, and mountain trails. Collectors look for high clarity or unique inclusions.

Other mineral specimens

See all

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

Green Apatite on Albite

Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]

mineral