mineral

Quartz pebble (likely milky quartz)

Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness 7 Mohs; pale cream to translucent white, vitreous-to-waxy luster, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and trigonal crystal structure. The rounded shape suggests natural abrasion or tumbling; surface details are limited by the photograph.

Identified September 18, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Likely formed in silica-rich igneous or metamorphic veins and later released by weathering and transported in sediment. Quartz is extremely common and ranges from Precambrian to recent geological ages.

Uses & applications

Used in glass, ceramics, abrasives, engineered stone, and electronics; attractive transparent pieces may be cut as gemstones. This small opaque fragment has little commercial value.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is highly resistant to weathering, making it common in river gravels, beaches, and soils.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its glassy appearance, lack of cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and ability to scratch ordinary glass; a hardness or streak test can confirm it. Common worldwide, especially in quartz veins and stream gravels.