mineral
Quartz Pebble
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, white to yellowish color due to iron staining, vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, white to yellowish color due to iron staining, vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Formed via hydrothermal processes, crystallization in igneous rocks, or precipitation from aqueous solutions. Often rounded into smooth pebbles through water transport in rivers or marine environments.
Uses & applications
Used in landscaping, decorative stone, glass manufacturing, abrasives, and as a raw material for silicon extraction.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant and durable minerals in the Earth's continental crust. Its high resistance to chemical and physical weathering allows it to survive long distances of transportation in rivers, frequently ending up as quartz pebbles on beaches and stream beds.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its hard nature (scratches glass easily) and conchoidal fracture. Found worldwide in nearly every geological environment.
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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
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic