mineral
Quartz Pebble
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to light tan; Luster: Vitreous to waxy (when water-worn); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (though not visible in this water-worn state); Conchoidal fracture.
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Milky white to light tan
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy (when water-worn)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to light tan; Luster: Vitreous to waxy (when water-worn); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (though not visible in this water-worn state); Conchoidal fracture.
Formation & geological history
Formed from cooling magma or precipitation in hydrothermal veins. This specimen shows significant rounding, suggesting it was transported by water in a river or coastal environment, contributing to its smooth, ovoid shape.
Uses & applications
Industrial use in glassmaking and electronics (when pure); used in construction as aggregate; common in landscaping and as a pocket stone for collectors.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Its high hardness and chemical resistance allow it to survive long-term erosion that destroys other minerals.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its ability to scratch glass and smooth, waxy surface. It is ubiquitously found in riverbeds, beaches, and glacial till worldwide.
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary