mineral
Quartz Pebble
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness 7 on Mohs scale, vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal crystal system (massively crystalline), no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, yellowish-brown/translucent color, specific gravity 2.65.
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Physical properties
Hardness 7 on Mohs scale, vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal crystal system (massively crystalline), no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, yellowish-brown/translucent color, specific gravity 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites, as well as igneous and metamorphic rocks. Weathered and rounded through stream, river, or coastal erosion over geological time scales.
Uses & applications
Used in lapidary work, decorative landscaping, aquariums, glassmaking, electronics, and as a tumbling mineral for rock polishers.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Rounded quartzite and quartz river pebbles have been smoothed over thousands of years by natural water friction.
Field identification & locations
Identified in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, translucent appearance, and rounded pebble shape. Found in stream beds, beaches, and gravel pits worldwide.
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Schist
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Septarian Pebble
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Sandstone with Mineral Veining or Crust
Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)
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