mineral
Quartz Pebble
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Translucent to opaque pale yellow, yellowish-brown, milky tan. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal System: Trigonal. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: 2.65.
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Translucent to opaque pale yellow, yellowish-brown, milky tan. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal System: Trigonal. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins, pegmatites, or igneous rocks, then eroded and rounded through river or glacial water action over thousands to millions of years.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in landscaping, tumbling for rock collections, lapidary art, glass manufacturing, and as a source of silica.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Rounded quartzite and quartz pebbles are among the most durable rocks, capable of surviving long-distance river transport without breaking down.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its high hardness (scratches glass easily), lack of cleavage, greasy to vitreous luster, and smooth water-worn surface. Extremely common along riverbeds, beaches, and gravel deposits worldwide.
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