mineral

Quartz Pebble

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, typically white or translucent, vitreous to greasy luster, hexagonal crystal system when unweathered, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65.

Identified July 28, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in a wide variety of geological environments, most commonly crystallized from silica-rich magmas and hydrothermal veins, or as durable detrital grains weathered from parent rock and smoothed by water transport in rivers or beaches.

Uses & applications

Used in landscaping, decorative gravel, glassmaking, electronics (silica wafers and oscillators), and occasionally as tumbled gemstones.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of the most abundant and durable minerals in Earth's continental crust. Because of its resistance to chemical weathering, it survives transportation over long distances, often ending up as smooth quartz pebbles.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified in the field by its high hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and resistance to acids. Found worldwide in riverbeds, beaches, and sedimentary deposits.