mineral
Milky quartz pebble
Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectWhite to translucent, vitreous-to-waxy luster, massive granular texture, and no obvious cleavage; Mohs hardness 7, conchoidal fracture, and specific gravity about 2.65. The rounded shape suggests tumbling or natural stream abrasion.
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Physical properties
White to translucent, vitreous-to-waxy luster, massive granular texture, and no obvious cleavage; Mohs hardness 7, conchoidal fracture, and specific gravity about 2.65. The rounded shape suggests tumbling or natural stream abrasion.
Formation & geological history
Formed when silica-rich fluids crystallized in veins or cavities, commonly in igneous and metamorphic rocks; quartz is mostly Precambrian to younger. This specimen may be naturally weathered or human-tumbled.
Uses & applications
Common quartz is used in glass, ceramics, abrasives, engineered stone, and electronics; attractive pieces are sold as mineral specimens or craft stones. It has modest jewelry value unless exceptionally clear or colored.
Geological facts
The cloudy appearance results from microscopic fluid inclusions, fractures, or dispersed mineral impurities. Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant and chemically resistant minerals.
Field identification & locations
Identify it by its glassy sheen, hardness—scratches ordinary glass—and lack of cleavage; calcite would be softer and fizz in dilute acid. Common worldwide, especially in quartz veins, granites, pegmatites, and river gravels.
