mineral
Likely quartz or quartz-rich pebble
Quartz (SiO₂), possibly milky quartz or a small quartzite fragment
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectTiny rounded, pale gray-white specimen with a slightly glittery or granular surface; likely vitreous to dull luster. Quartz hardness is 7 Mohs, has no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, hexagonal crystal structure, and specific gravity about 2.65. The image is insufficient to confirm crystal faces or translucency.
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Physical properties
Tiny rounded, pale gray-white specimen with a slightly glittery or granular surface; likely vitreous to dull luster. Quartz hardness is 7 Mohs, has no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, hexagonal crystal structure, and specific gravity about 2.65. The image is insufficient to confirm crystal faces or translucency.
Formation & geological history
Quartz forms in hydrothermal veins, igneous rocks, and metamorphic rocks; quartzite forms when sandstone is metamorphosed. Quartz is geologically widespread and commonly Precambrian to recent. At approximately 34.5°N, 89.8°W, transported quartz pebbles and quartz-rich gravel are plausible in stream or surficial deposits.
Uses & applications
Used in glass, electronics, abrasives, engineered stone, and collecting; attractive transparent varieties are gemstones. This tiny opaque fragment has little commercial value.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second-most abundant mineral in Earth’s continental crust. White coloration commonly results from microscopic fluid inclusions or fractures.
Field identification & locations
Test against glass: it should scratch ordinary window glass; steel should not scratch it. A hand lens, streak test, and examination for conchoidal fracture would help distinguish quartz from calcite or glass.
