sedimentary
Beach Pebbles and Jasper
Quartz / Microcrystalline Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness 6.5-7 on Mohs scale; displays various colors including reddish pink (jasper/chalcedony), dark green, basaltic black, grey, and smooth cream tones; dull to waxy/vitreous luster; rounded and polished by natural wave action
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Physical properties
Hardness 6.5-7 on Mohs scale; displays various colors including reddish pink (jasper/chalcedony), dark green, basaltic black, grey, and smooth cream tones; dull to waxy/vitreous luster; rounded and polished by natural wave action
Formation & geological history
Formed through weathering, erosion, and transport by river or ocean currents. The smooth, rounded shapes are created by friction and tumbling against sand and other stones in water environments over hundreds to thousands of years.
Uses & applications
Used in decorative landscaping, aquarium decor, tumbled rock collections, craft projects, and lapidary arts.
Geological facts
Beach pebbles often contain microcrystalline quartz, chert, or jasper, which make them hard enough to resist complete disintegration in rough marine environments, instead grinding down into smooth cabochon-like pebbles.
Field identification & locations
Look for rounded, smooth-edged stones along coastal beaches, riverbeds, and gravel bars. Easy to collect with high variety in colors and patterns.
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