mineral
Quartz Pebble
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness 7 on Mohs scale, milky white to yellowish translucent color, waxy to vitreous luster, trigonal crystal system, no true cleavage, specific gravity ~2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness 7 on Mohs scale, milky white to yellowish translucent color, waxy to vitreous luster, trigonal crystal system, no true cleavage, specific gravity ~2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in igneous pegmatites or hydrothermal veins, then eroded, transported, and rounded by water action in riverbeds, lakes, or coastal beach environments.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in landscaping, river rock decor, glassmaking raw material, aggregate, and as a popular souvenir pebble for casual collectors.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Rounded beach or river pebbles gain their smooth, oblong shape through mechanical weathering over thousands of years.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of reaction to acid, and smooth water-worn texture. Found globally along riverbeds, streams, and beaches.
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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Sandstone with Mineral Veining or Crust
Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)
sedimentary
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock