mineral
Quartz Pebble (Iron-Stained)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Translucent yellowish-brown to tan due to iron oxidation. Luster: Vitreous to waxy. Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal (microcrystalline or massive pebble). Cleavage: None, exhibits conchoidal fracture.
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Translucent yellowish-brown to tan due to iron oxidation
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Translucent yellowish-brown to tan due to iron oxidation. Luster: Vitreous to waxy. Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal (microcrystalline or massive pebble). Cleavage: None, exhibits conchoidal fracture.
Formation & geological history
Formed through igneous or hydrothermal quartz crystallization, which was later weathered, eroded, and rounded by fluvial (river) or coastal water action. The yellowish coloration comes from surface iron oxide/limonite staining.
Uses & applications
Commonly collected as river stones, used in lapidary art for rock tumbling, decorative landscaping, aggregate, and silica source in industrial manufacturing.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most resistant minerals to physical and chemical weathering. As other minerals breakdown, quartz grains survive and become smoothly rounded river pebbles and beach stones over thousands of years.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its Mohs hardness of 7 (scratches glass and steel), lack of cleavage, translucent appearance, and smooth, rounded pebble shape typical of water-worn stones. Commonly found in riverbeds, gravel pits, and beaches worldwide.
