metamorphic
Pink quartzite pebble
Quartzite, composed predominantly of quartz (SiO₂)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectLikely a rounded, water-worn quartzite pebble with a pink-orange color from iron-bearing impurities. Quartz has Mohs hardness 7, a vitreous to dull luster, and hexagonal crystal structure; quartzite has no prominent cleavage and is typically dense and granular.
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Physical properties
Likely a rounded, water-worn quartzite pebble with a pink-orange color from iron-bearing impurities. Quartz has Mohs hardness 7, a vitreous to dull luster, and hexagonal crystal structure; quartzite has no prominent cleavage and is typically dense and granular.
Formation & geological history
Formed when quartz-rich sandstone was compacted and recrystallized under heat and pressure; its age cannot be determined from the image. The rounded shape suggests transport and abrasion in a stream or along a shore.
Uses & applications
Quartzite is used as decorative stone, paving, aggregate, and sometimes in jewelry or lapidary work; this small pebble is mainly suitable for collecting or crafts.
Geological facts
Quartzite is hard enough to scratch glass and commonly breaks across, rather than around, its interlocking quartz grains.
Field identification & locations
Look for a hard, quartz-rich texture and grain boundaries that continue across the rock; pink coloration may come from iron oxides. Quartzite occurs worldwide in metamorphic terrains and river or beach gravels.
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