mineral
Quartz Pebble
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness 7 on Mohs scale, translucent to opaque brownish-tan hue, vitreous to waxy luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture.
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Physical properties
Hardness 7 on Mohs scale, translucent to opaque brownish-tan hue, vitreous to waxy luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture.
Formation & geological history
Formed in igneous, metamorphic, or sedimentary environments. Naturally rounded and smoothed through erosion and transport by rivers, streams, or oceans.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in landscaping, gravel, aquarium substrates, and collected as small rock specimens.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals on Earth's surface. Water-worn quartz pebbles are found worldwide in stream beds, beaches, and glacial deposits.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of distinct cleavage, and water-rounded smooth shape. Found almost everywhere with water erosion.
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Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Sandstone with Mineral Veining or Crust
Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)
sedimentary
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock