mineral

Quartz Pebble

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Yellowish-tan/off-white (Iron-stained), Luster: Vitreous to waxy, Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (Trigonal), Cleavage: None (Conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65

Identified June 30, 2026More mineral →

Explore Quartz Pebble in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed via crystallization from magma or precipitation from hydrothermal veins. This specific specimen is weather-rounded, likely through transport in a riverbed or coastal environment over thousands of years as part of the sedimentary cycle.

Uses & applications

Commonly used as decorative gravel in landscaping, in construction as an aggregate, or as a source of silica for industrial glass making and electronics. Tumbled specimens are used in lapidary art.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Its name comes from the German word 'quarz', which has ancient origins. The yellow tint is often caused by 'limonite' or iron oxide staining on the surface.

Field identification & locations

Identified in the field by its hardness (it will scratch glass) and lack of cleavage. It is extremely common in riverbeds, beaches, and glaciated regions across the globe.