mineral
Quartz Pebble
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Mohs hardness of 7, can range from translucent to opaque, greasy to vitreous luster, hexagonal crystal system, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness of 7, can range from translucent to opaque, greasy to vitreous luster, hexagonal crystal system, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture
Formation & geological history
Formed through crystallization of silica-rich magma or precipitation from hydrothermal veins; often rounded into pebbles by fluvial or glacial erosion
Uses & applications
Used in glassmaking, construction aggregates, electronics (piezoelectric properties), and as decorative landscaping stones
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in the Earth's continental crust and is chemically stable enough to survive long periods of weathering which is why it often appears as rounded river pebbles
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its hardness (scratches glass) and lack of cleavage planes. Found worldwide in stream beds, beaches, and soil
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Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)
Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)
Metamorphic Rock
![Green Apatite on Albite (Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]) — mineral](https://media.rockidentification.com/2391a63f-fb20-47d5-af9a-2035851eb32e-thumbnail.jpg)
Green Apatite on Albite
Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]
mineral