sedimentary
Quartz Pebble
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, typically white, clear, or tan due to weathering and staining, vitreous luster, hexagonal crystal system when unweathered, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity of 2.65.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, typically white, clear, or tan due to weathering and staining, vitreous luster, hexagonal crystal system when unweathered, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity of 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Formed through mechanical weathering and aqueous transport of primary quartz veins or silica-rich rocks, smoothed into a pebble shape via water action in rivers, streams, or beaches over thousands to millions of years.
Uses & applications
Commonly collected as a novelty item (especially when naturally heart-shaped), used in landscaping, or processed into aggregate and silica sand for industrial applications.
Geological facts
Naturally heart-shaped rocks like this are popular collector items and tokens of affection, formed purely by random differential weathering and tumbling in water currents.
Field identification & locations
Found globally in riverbeds, lake shores, and marine beaches. Identified by its high hardness (scratches glass), lack of reaction to acid, and smooth, water-worn texture.
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Quartz pebble
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
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