mineral
Quartz Pebble
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Translucent white to milky cream with iron staining (tan/brown). Luster: Vitreous to waxy. Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal. Cleavage: Indistinct/Conchoidal.
- Hardness
- 7 on the Mohs scale
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Translucent white to milky cream with iron staining (tan/brown). Luster: Vitreous to waxy. Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal. Cleavage: Indistinct/Conchoidal.
Formation & geological history
Formed via hydrothermal activity or igneous cooling, then weathered and transported by water (rivers or coastal waves) to create a rounded, water-worn texture.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in landscaping, as a glass-making silica source, or for tumbling and polishing by hobbyists. High-purity quartz is used in electronics.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. This specific specimen shows 'chatter marks' or frosting typical of high-energy water transport over long distances.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (it will easily scratch glass) and lack of distinct cleavage. Found globally in riverbeds, beaches, and glacial deposits.
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Metamorphic
Sandstone with Mineral Veining or Crust
Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)
sedimentary
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
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Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
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Mineral/Rock