mineral
Milky quartz pebble
Quartz (SiO₂), with iron-oxide staining
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness 7 Mohs; white to translucent gray with tan-brown staining, vitreous to dull luster, trigonal crystal structure, and no cleavage; irregular conchoidal fracture. The rounded shape suggests natural abrasion.
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Physical properties
Hardness 7 Mohs; white to translucent gray with tan-brown staining, vitreous to dull luster, trigonal crystal structure, and no cleavage; irregular conchoidal fracture. The rounded shape suggests natural abrasion.
Formation & geological history
Likely quartz detached from quartz-rich rock and rounded by stream or shoreline transport; quartz forms in many geological settings across Earth’s history.
Uses & applications
Commonly collected as a natural specimen; quartz is also used in glass, electronics, and construction, though this pebble has no obvious specialized use.
Geological facts
The brown coloration is consistent with iron-oxide staining, while the cloudy white areas result from microscopic inclusions or fractures.
Field identification & locations
Look for glassy fracture surfaces, hardness sufficient to scratch glass, and lack of cleavage. Quartz is widespread worldwide; the exact source cannot be determined from the image.
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