mineral
Quartz Pebble (Milky Quartz)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Translucent white to milky off-white with minor iron staining in fractures. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal structure: Trigonal (hexagonal system). Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific gravity: 2.65.
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Translucent white to milky off-white with minor iron staining in fractures. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal structure: Trigonal (hexagonal system). Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific gravity: 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Formed through crystallization in igneous pegmatites or hydrothermal veins, subsequently weathered, eroded, and water-worn into a rounded river or beach pebble.
Uses & applications
Used in glassmaking, abrasives, electronic components, lapidary tumbling, and educational rock collections.
Geological facts
Milky quartz gets its cloudy appearance from tiny gas or liquid fluid inclusions trapped inside the crystal during its growth millions of years ago.
Field identification & locations
Can be identified by its inability to be scratched by a steel blade, lack of cleavage, and smooth, water-rounded surface. Commonly found along riverbeds, beaches, and glacial gravel deposits worldwide.
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