mineral
Iron-stained quartz pebble
Quartz (SiO₂), likely colored by iron-oxide staining
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectSmall, rounded, opaque cream-yellow to brown pebble with a dull, mottled surface. Quartz has Mohs hardness 7, a trigonal crystal structure, vitreous luster when fresh, and no cleavage; the specimen’s specific gravity is not measurable from the image.
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Physical properties
Small, rounded, opaque cream-yellow to brown pebble with a dull, mottled surface. Quartz has Mohs hardness 7, a trigonal crystal structure, vitreous luster when fresh, and no cleavage; the specimen’s specific gravity is not measurable from the image.
Formation & geological history
Likely a quartz-rich fragment weathered from bedrock and rounded during transport in sediment or water; iron oxides stained its surface. Its geological age cannot be determined visually.
Uses & applications
Primarily a modest collecting specimen; quartz is widely used in glass, electronics, abrasives, and ornamental stone.
Geological facts
Iron oxides such as goethite or hematite commonly produce yellow, ochre, and brown staining on quartz.
Field identification & locations
A likely identification is quartz, though the photo alone cannot confirm composition. Check for hardness near 7 and a white streak; similar-looking softer pebbles may be other minerals or rocks. Quartz occurs worldwide.
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