mineral

Quartz Pebble

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, typically white, clear, or translucent in color, vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, and specific gravity of around 2.65.

Identified July 30, 2026More mineral →

Explore Quartz Pebble in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the weathering and erosion of parent rocks containing quartz (such as granite or quartzite), followed by prolonged water transport in rivers or beaches that rounds and smooths the edges.

Uses & applications

Used primarily in landscaping, decorative gravel, tumbled stones, and sometimes as a raw material for silicon and glass manufacturing when found in massive quantities.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of the most abundant and durable minerals on Earth's continental crust, capable of surviving immense mechanical and chemical weathering that destroys other minerals.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified in the field by its high hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and smooth, water-worn shape. Found globally in streambeds, beaches, and alluvial deposits.