mineral
Quartz Pebble
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: tan to yellowish-brown (likely due to iron staining), Luster: vitreous to waxy, Crystal structure: Hexagonal (trigonal), Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture, Specific gravity: 2.65
Identified More mineral →
Explore Quartz Pebble in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: tan to yellowish-brown (likely due to iron staining), Luster: vitreous to waxy, Crystal structure: Hexagonal (trigonal), Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture, Specific gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed through the cooling of silica-rich magma or precipitation from hydrothermal veins. This specific specimen is a water-worn river pebble, shaped by mechanical erosion over time.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in construction (sand/gravel), glassmaking, electronics (piezoelectric properties), and as decorative landscaping stone.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Its name comes from the German word 'quarz', which has roots in Slavic meaning 'hard'.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its ability to scratch glass, its lack of cleavage, and its typical translucent appearance. It can be found globally in almost all geological environments.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)
Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)
Metamorphic Rock