mineral
Quartz Pebble
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, typically white, clear, or yellowish-orange due to iron staining, vitreous luster, hexagonal crystal system when unweathered, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity of 2.65.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, typically white, clear, or yellowish-orange due to iron staining, vitreous luster, hexagonal crystal system when unweathered, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity of 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the weathering and prolonged water-tumble erosion of quartz-bearing rocks like granite or quartzite in aquatic or beach environments.
Uses & applications
Used in landscaping, decorative gravel, lapidary arts, and as a natural specimen for collectors.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals on Earth's continental crust and is exceptionally resistant to weathering, which is why it commonly survives as smooth pebbles on beaches.
Field identification & locations
Found globally on beaches, riverbeds, and stream gravels. Easily identified by its high hardness (scratches glass) and smooth, water-worn shape.
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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
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral