mineral

Quartz Pebble

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Milky white to translucent. Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to waxy. Crystal system: Trigonal. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale
Color: Milky white to translucent
Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to waxy

Identified June 28, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Milky white to translucent. Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to waxy. Crystal system: Trigonal. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific gravity: 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Formed through the crystallization of silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal veins. This specific specimen is a water-worn pebble, meaning it was shaped by mechanical weathering and erosion in a river, stream, or beach environment over thousands of years.

Uses & applications

Quartz is used extensively in glassmaking, electronics (piezoelectric properties), and as an abrasive. Small pebbles are often used in landscaping, aquarium gravel, or as tumbled decorative stones.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. It is highly resistant to chemical and physical weathering, which is why it often remains as pebbles long after other minerals have broken down into clay or silt.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (it will scratch glass and stainless steel), lack of cleavage, and translucent appearance. It is found globally in almost all geological settings, particularly in streambeds and coastal areas.