sedimentary
Jasper / Quartz Pebble
Silicon dioxide (SiO2) microcrystalline quartz
Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Brown, tan, and creamy white patches. Luster: Waxy to vitreous. Crystal structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline/cryptocrystalline). Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific gravity: 2.60 to 2.65.
- Hardness
- 7 on the Mohs scale
- Color
- Brown, tan, and creamy white patches
- Luster
- Waxy to vitreous
Identified More sedimentary →
Explore Jasper / Quartz Pebble in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Brown, tan, and creamy white patches. Luster: Waxy to vitreous. Crystal structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline/cryptocrystalline). Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific gravity: 2.60 to 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the deposition and lithification of silica-rich sediments or the silification of existing rocks, often shaped and smoothed by water transport (fluvial or marine erosion) over a long period.
Uses & applications
Used in lapidary arts, ornamental carvings, polished decorative stones, and as a tumbling specimen for rock collectors.
Geological facts
Water-worn pebbles like this often display differential weathering, where softer mineral inclusions or zones erode at different rates, leaving smooth, tactile shapes.
Field identification & locations
Can be identified by its high hardness (scratches glass), waxy luster, and smooth water-worn surface. Found commonly in riverbeds, gravel bars, and beaches worldwide.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Quartz pebble
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
sedimentary
Fossiliferous Concretion
Septarian Concretion containing Brachiopods/Crinoids
fossil
Generic Pebble / Rock Fragment
Lithic fragment / Weathered rock
sedimentary
Sedimentary Sandstone
Arenite (Sedimentary Rock)
sedimentary
Banded Siltstone / Mudstone Pebble
Siltstone / Argillite
sedimentary