mineral

Quartz Pebble

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Off-white, yellowish-tan to translucent grey. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal structure: Hexagonal/trigonal. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Off-white, yellowish-tan to translucent grey
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified July 26, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through igneous activity in pegmatites or hydrothermal veins, or released via weathering of silicate rocks. Smooth, rounded pebble shape formed by water erosion in riverbeds, lakeshores, or oceans.

Uses & applications

Commonly used as construction aggregate, landscaping gravel, in water filtration systems, glassmaking, and silicon production. Smooth pebbles are popular for decorative rock gardens and crafts.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Rounded quartz pebbles can withstand millions of years of transportation by rivers and waves due to their high hardness and chemical resistance.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its hardness (scratches steel and glass), lack of cleavage, translucent appearance, and rounded stream-worn texture. Found in stream beds, beaches, and gravel pits worldwide.