mineral
Quartz Pebble
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: off-white to beige with yellowish staining in crevices; Luster: waxy to dull (tumbled by water); Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: none (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: ~2.65.
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- off-white to beige with yellowish staining in crevices
- Luster
- waxy to dull (tumbled by water)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: off-white to beige with yellowish staining in crevices; Luster: waxy to dull (tumbled by water); Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: none (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: ~2.65.
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins or igneous intrusions, then eroded, transported, and water-worn in stream beds, rivers, or beach environments.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in landscaping, gravel aggregates, decorative rock arrangements, or as tumbling rough for hobbyists.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals in Earth's continental crust. Rounded quartzite and quartz pebbles often contain microcrystalline cavities or small vugs.
Field identification & locations
Can be identified by its hardness (scratches glass readily), rounded water-worn smooth surface, lack of cleavage, and light tan to white color. Extremely common along riverbeds and beaches worldwide.
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