mineral

Quartz pebble (Iron-stained Quartz)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Translucent white to off-white with reddish-orange iron oxide staining along fractures. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: ~2.65.

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified July 27, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed originally from hydrothermal vein deposits or igneous/metamorphic host rocks. The rounded shape indicates erosion, weathering, and transport by water in a stream, river, or beach environment.

Uses & applications

Commonly used in landscape decoration, construction aggregate, and as general geological study specimens.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Red and orange hues on quartz pebbles are often due to superficial hematite or limonite (iron oxide) staining precipitated from groundwater into micro-cracks.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, milky/translucent quartz body, and river-worn smooth rounded shape. Found in gravel beds, rivers, and coastal beaches globally.