mineral
Quartz Pebble
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, translucent to opaque with a vitreous to greasy luster, white to brownish-gray color with minor inclusions, no true cleavage, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity of 2.65.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, translucent to opaque with a vitreous to greasy luster, white to brownish-gray color with minor inclusions, no true cleavage, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity of 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accumulation of quartz grains from weathered igneous or metamorphic rocks, subsequently rounded and smoothed by water transport in streams, rivers, or beach environments over geological time.
Uses & applications
Used in landscaping, decorative gravel, aquarium substrates, and as raw material for aggregate and glassmaking.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth's continental crust. Rounded quartz pebbles are extremely durable and can survive multiple cycles of erosion and redeposition.
Field identification & locations
Found worldwide in riverbeds, beaches, and alluvial gravel deposits. Easily identified by its high hardness (scratches glass) and resistance to weathering.
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