mineral

Quartz Pebble

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Translucent grayish-white. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal System: Trigonal/Hexagonal. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture).

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Translucent grayish-white
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified July 24, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Translucent grayish-white. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal System: Trigonal/Hexagonal. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture).

Formation & geological history

Formed through magmatic crystallization, hydrothermal fluids, or metamorphism, then eroded and rounded by water transport in rivers, beaches, or glacial streams.

Uses & applications

Commonly used as construction aggregate, in landscaping, and in glassmaking or abrasives when processed. Small unpolished pebbles are mainly collected as pocket stones.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Rounded quartzite and quartz river pebbles have survived millions of years of weathering due to high chemical stability.

Field identification & locations

Identified in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, translucent appearance, and smooth rounded shape from erosion. Found abundantly worldwide in gravel beds and beaches.