mineral
Quartz Pebble
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White/translucent with iron staining, Luster: Vitreous to waxy (when smoothed), Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Specific gravity: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White/translucent with iron staining, Luster: Vitreous to waxy (when smoothed), Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Specific gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed from cooling silica-rich hydrothermal fluids or within igneous and metamorphic rocks; later weathered and water-worn into a smooth pebble shape.
Uses & applications
Industrial uses include glassmaking and electronics; as a pebble, it is used for landscaping, aquarium decor, and as a pocket stone for collectors.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. These smooth shapes are naturally achieved through the abrasive action of rivers or waves over long periods.
Field identification & locations
Look for a hard, translucent stone that cannot be scratched by a steel knife and lacks cleavage (breaks with a curved, conchoidal fracture). Commonly found in riverbeds and beaches.
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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Sandstone with Mineral Veining or Crust
Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic