mineral

Quartz Pebble

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to translucent with light brownish marbling; Luster: Vitreous to waxy (polished by water); Crystal structure: Trigonal (often massive in pebbles); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture).

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Milky white to translucent with light brownish marbling
Luster: Vitreous to waxy (polished by water)

Identified July 2, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from hydrothermal veins or within igneous and metamorphic rocks. This specific specimen has been tumbled and rounded by wave action in a high-energy beach environment, such as Grande Plage in Skikda, Algeria.

Uses & applications

Used in construction, glass manufacturing, electronics (piezoelectric properties), and as decorative landscaping stones or aquarium gravel. Local beach pebbles are often collected as souvenirs or for meditation stones.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals on Earth's crust. The rounded shape indicates a long history of erosion and transport by water. The 'marbled' effect mentioned by the user is likely caused by iron oxide staining or internal fractures.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its ability to scratch glass, lack of cleavage, and smooth, water-worn surface. Commonly found on Mediterranean beaches where crystalline rocks are present inland.