mineral
Milky quartz pebble
Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness 7 Mohs; white to gray, vitreous to waxy luster, massive rather than visibly crystalline, with conchoidal fracture and no cleavage. The rounded shape indicates natural water abrasion or tumbling; surface coating may obscure its luster.
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Physical properties
Hardness 7 Mohs; white to gray, vitreous to waxy luster, massive rather than visibly crystalline, with conchoidal fracture and no cleavage. The rounded shape indicates natural water abrasion or tumbling; surface coating may obscure its luster.
Formation & geological history
Forms when silica-rich fluids crystallize in veins, cavities, or igneous and metamorphic rocks; individual quartz grains are commonly Precambrian to Phanerozoic in age. This specimen was likely weathered from a quartz vein and transported in alluvial sediment.
Uses & applications
Used in glass, ceramics, abrasives, engineered stone, and electronics; attractive pieces are sold as inexpensive display specimens, paperweights, or lapidary material.
Geological facts
Milky appearance results from microscopic fluid inclusions, fractures, or impurities scattering light. Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant and chemically resistant minerals.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its very high hardness, inability to be scratched by steel, glassy fracture, and lack of cleavage; calcite or limestone would be softer and react with dilute acid. Common in stream gravels and quartz veins worldwide.
