sedimentary
Quartz Pebble / River Siltstone
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) / Fine-grained Sedimentary Rock
Hardness: 6.5-7 on Mohs scale. Color: yellowish-brown, tan, to orange-brown. Luster: dull to waxy/sub-vitreous. Fracture: conchoidal to uneven. Texture: smooth, rounded by water abrasion.
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- yellowish-brown, tan, to orange-brown
- Luster
- dull to waxy/sub-vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 on Mohs scale. Color: yellowish-brown, tan, to orange-brown. Luster: dull to waxy/sub-vitreous. Fracture: conchoidal to uneven. Texture: smooth, rounded by water abrasion.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the mechanical weathering and transport of silica-rich rocks or fine sediments by water currents in rivers, streams, or coastal beach environments.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in landscaping, aquarium decoration, aggregate for concrete, garden paths, and craft projects.
Geological facts
River pebbles owe their smooth, rounded shapes to thousands of hours of natural water tumbling, a process mimicked by lapidary rock tumblers.
Field identification & locations
Identified by smooth rounded edges, yellowish-brown staining from iron oxides, and durability. Commonly found in riverbeds, glacial deposits, and coastal shores worldwide.
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