mineral

Mottled quartz pebble

Quartz (SiO₂), likely iron-oxide-stained milky quartz

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Mostly opaque white to cream with rusty-brown patches and a dull to glassy surface. Quartz has Mohs hardness 7, a trigonal crystal structure, no cleavage, and conchoidal fracture; the image does not establish whether this pebble is naturally rounded or worked.

Identified September 29, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Quartz commonly forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks and hydrothermal veins; iron oxides can stain it brown during weathering. Quartz is geologically widespread and occurs across many ages.

Uses & applications

Common quartz is used in glassmaking, ceramics, abrasives, and electronics; attractive pieces may be kept as curios or polished for decoration.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals. Brown coloration can result from iron-oxide coatings or inclusions.

Field identification & locations

Look for hardness sufficient to scratch glass, lack of cleavage, and a glassy fracture; this small specimen is not identifiable to a specific locality from the photo. Quartz occurs worldwide in veins, gravel, and many rock types.