mineral

Likely quartz pebble

Quartz (SiO₂), possibly milky or iron-stained quartz

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Small, rounded, pale cream, and somewhat translucent; the image is too soft to confirm grain or cleavage. Quartz has Mohs hardness 7, a vitreous-to-dull luster, and hexagonal crystals, though a worn pebble may show no crystal faces.

Identified September 30, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Quartz commonly forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks and in hydrothermal veins; weathering can release durable fragments that become rounded in streams or glacial deposits. A specific age or formation cannot be determined from the photo.

Uses & applications

Quartz is used in glassmaking, electronics, construction aggregate, and jewelry; this small, unremarkable pebble has little commercial value.

Geological facts

Quartz has no true cleavage and typically breaks with a curved, conchoidal fracture.

Field identification & locations

The rounded outline and light color are consistent with a water- or ice-worn quartz pebble, but the photo does not rule out another pale stone. Quartz is common in northeastern Russia, so the reported region is plausible; test hardness only if appropriate, as quartz can scratch glass.