mineral

Quartz pebble

Quartz, SiO₂; likely a rounded vein-quartz clast

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Pale gray to whitish, massive and subtly translucent, with a vitreous-to-waxy luster; Mohs hardness 7, trigonal crystal structure, no cleavage, and specific gravity about 2.65. The image shows a rounded, weathered pebble; exact identification is uncertain from appearance alone.

Identified October 4, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Quartz commonly crystallizes from silica-rich fluids in veins, then becomes a pebble through weathering and transport by water. Quartz veins occur in rocks of many geological ages; the pebble’s age and source cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Quartz is used in glassmaking, ceramics, electronics, and as a gemstone or decorative material; this unworked pebble is mainly of modest collecting interest.

Geological facts

Quartz is among Earth’s most abundant minerals and resists weathering, so it commonly accumulates in river and beach gravels.

Field identification & locations

Look for hardness sufficient to scratch glass, a pale streak, and absence of cleavage; common worldwide in veins and sedimentary gravels. The pictured specimen appears embedded or resting on a different rock surface.