mineral
Quartz Pebble
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: White, translucent, or milky; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None (exhibits conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- White, translucent, or milky
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
Identified More mineral →
Explore Quartz Pebble in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: White, translucent, or milky; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None (exhibits conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Forms in virtually all environments (igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary) through the crystallization of silica-rich solutions or cooling magma. Weathering-resistant quartz commonly survives transport to become water-worn pebbles in streams and beaches.
Uses & applications
Used in landscaping, decorative stone, abrasives, glassmaking, and gemstone collection.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth's continental crust. Its high durability allows it to survive long distances in river beds and shorelines without breaking down.
Field identification & locations
Found globally in riverbeds, beaches, and glacial tills. Easily identified by its high hardness (scratches glass) and lack of cleavage.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Soil with Mineral Detritus and Quartz Fragments
Regolith / Silicate Mineral Aggregate
sedimentary
Limonite / Goethite (Iron Ore Mineral nodule)
FeO(OH)·nH2O / FeO(OH)
mineral
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral