mineral

Quartz Pebble

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to translucent; Luster: Vitreous to waxy (when water-worn); Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Milky white to translucent
Luster: Vitreous to waxy (when water-worn)

Identified June 2, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to translucent; Luster: Vitreous to waxy (when water-worn); Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed from cooling magma or hydrothermal veins. This specific specimen is an alluvial pebble, shaped and smoothed by water erosion in a river or beach environment over thousands of years.

Uses & applications

Used in glassmaking, electronics (piezoelectric properties), abrasives, and as decorative landscaping stones or tumbling material for hobbyists.

Geological facts

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

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (cannot be scratched by steel) and lack of cleavage. It is found globally in riverbeds, beaches, and soil. Collectors look for clarity or unique weathering patterns.