mineral
Quartz (Gravel Pebble)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: off-white/grey; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 (Mohs scale)
- Color
- off-white/grey
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: off-white/grey; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed from cooling magma or precipitation in hydrothermal veins; this specific piece has been weathered and rounded as alluvial gravel in a stream or river bed.
Uses & applications
Used in glassmaking, electronics (piezoelectric properties), abrasives, and as construction aggregate. Small pebbles are often used in landscaping.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. It is extremely resistant to physical and chemical weathering, which is why it often remains as small pebbles while other minerals dissolve.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (it will scratch glass) and lack of cleavage. Commonly found in gardens, driveways, riverbeds, and beaches worldwide.
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary