mineral
Quartz Pebble
Crystalline Silica (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: translucent yellow-tan, Luster: vitreous to waxy (weathered), Crystal System: Trigonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture).
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: translucent yellow-tan, Luster: vitreous to waxy (weathered), Crystal System: Trigonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture).
Formation & geological history
Formed via crystallization from magma or hydrothermal veins; this specific specimen has been significantly rounded and smoothed through high-energy water transport (fluvial or beach erosion).
Uses & applications
Used as an abrasive, in glass making, as architectural aggregate, and by collectors as pocket stones or lapidary material.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. These rounded shapes are often called 'sea glass beans' or 'river stones' depending on where they are found.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (it will scratch glass) and lack of cleavage. Common on beaches and in riverbeds worldwide where silica-rich rocks are present.
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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