mineral

Quartz Pebble

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, white to clear color, vitreous luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, and no true cleavage. Specific gravity is approximately 2.65.

Identified August 2, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, white to clear color, vitreous luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, and no true cleavage. Specific gravity is approximately 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Forms in a wide variety of geological environments, including igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. Quartz is extremely durable and frequently survives weathering and erosion to form quartz pebbles found in rivers and glacial tills.

Uses & applications

Used in glass manufacturing, electronics, abrasives, and as decorative landscaping stones or tumbling rough for lapidary work.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals in Earth's continental crust. Its high resistance to both mechanical and chemical weathering is why quartz pebbles are so common in gravel deposits worldwide.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its hardness (it easily scratches glass and cannot be scratched by a steel knife) and its characteristic conchoidal fracture. Found worldwide, including glacial deposits and riverbeds across the Moscow region of Russia.