sedimentary
Quartz Pebble
Quartz (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2)
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, typically milky white to greyish with yellow-brown iron staining, vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65.
Identified More sedimentary →
Explore Quartz Pebble in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, typically milky white to greyish with yellow-brown iron staining, vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the mechanical weathering and water transport of quartz-rich rocks (like granite or quartzite). Quartz is exceptionally resistant to chemical and physical weathering, allowing it to survive long transport in riverbeds or beaches, resulting in its smooth, rounded, water-worn shape.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in landscaping, decorative stone, aquarium gravel, and as raw material for glassmaking and silicon production when found in larger quantities.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant and durable minerals in Earth's continental crust. Water-worn quartz pebbles are frequently found on beaches and riverbanks worldwide.
Field identification & locations
Easily identifiable by its high hardness (scratches glass), conchoidal fracture, and lack of effervescence with acid. Found globally in alluvial deposits, beaches, and conglomeratic sedimentary rocks.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Fossiliferous Concretion
Septarian Concretion containing Brachiopods/Crinoids
fossil
Quartz pebble
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
sedimentary
Generic Pebble / Rock Fragment
Lithic fragment / Weathered rock
sedimentary
Sedimentary Sandstone
Arenite (Sedimentary Rock)
sedimentary
Banded Siltstone / Mudstone Pebble
Siltstone / Argillite
sedimentary