mineral

Milky quartz pebbles

Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically white to translucent with a glassy to dull luster, no cleavage, and conchoidal fracture; Mohs hardness 7 and specific gravity about 2.65. The pictured rounded pieces appear weathered or tumbled, with cloudy inclusions and possible iron staining.

Identified August 18, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Quartz crystallizes from silica-rich igneous and hydrothermal fluids and commonly survives erosion as durable stream or soil gravel. Its age cannot be determined from the image; it may derive from ancient granite, pegmatite, or metamorphic quartz veins.

Uses & applications

Used in glass, ceramics, electronics, abrasives, and engineered stone; attractive pieces are sold as inexpensive lapidary or landscaping material. Common specimens generally have little commercial value.

Geological facts

Milky appearance results from microscopic fluid inclusions, fractures, or mineral impurities scattering light. Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant and weathering-resistant minerals.

Field identification & locations

Identify by hardness, lack of cleavage, white translucency, and glassy fracture; it should scratch ordinary glass but not be scratched by a steel knife. Common in streambeds, glacial deposits, soils, quartz veins, granite terrains, and worldwide gravel.