sedimentary

Quartz Pebble (Feldspathic / Chert Pebble)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) / Potassium Feldspar (KAlSi3O8)

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Pale pinkish-tan, beige, translucent white, and orange-brown tinting. Luster: Vitreous to waxy. Cleavage: Poor/none (conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: 2.6 - 2.65.

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale
Luster: Vitreous to waxy

Identified July 23, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through mechanical weathering, stream transport, and natural water-abrasion of quartz-rich or feldspar-rich rocks such as granite or pegmatite over thousands to millions of years. Commonly found in riverbeds, lake shores, and glacial drift deposits.

Uses & applications

Used extensively in landscape construction, river rock gravel, aggregate, lapidary tumbling, and as common educational specimens for beginner rock collectors.

Geological facts

Smooth pebble rounded by water action over time. The pinkish-tan hue usually comes from trace inclusions of iron oxide or potassium feldspar within the quartz matrix.

Field identification & locations

Can be identified in the field by its hard surface (scratches glass), water-worn smooth teardrop shape, and semi-translucent, waxy appearance under sunlight. Commonly found along beaches, riverbanks, and gravel pits worldwide.

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