mineral

Iron-stained quartz pebble

Quartz (SiO₂), colored by iron-oxide staining; exact identification is uncertain from the photo

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Opaque to translucent cream, yellow, and rusty-brown mottling with a vitreous-to-dull luster; quartz has Mohs hardness 7, a trigonal crystal structure, and no cleavage. The rounded form suggests natural water wear; the host may include other minerals.

Identified October 7, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Likely quartz-rich material stained by iron oxides and rounded during transport in a stream or beach environment. Its age cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Commonly kept as a decorative or collectible pebble; quartz is also widely used in glassmaking, electronics, and abrasives.

Geological facts

Iron oxides such as limonite can produce yellow, orange, and brown coloration on or within quartz.

Field identification & locations

Look for hardness sufficient to scratch glass and lack of cleavage; a streak or hardness test can help distinguish quartz from softer lookalikes. Quartz pebbles occur worldwide in river gravels and on beaches.