mineral
Quartz Pebble
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: White to off-white; Luster: Vitreous to waxy (weathered); Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 (Mohs scale)
- Color
- White to off-white
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy (weathered)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: White to off-white; Luster: Vitreous to waxy (weathered); Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed through the cooling of silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal veins. This specific specimen has been rounded and smoothed by water erosion in a river, stream, or beach environment over thousands of years.
Uses & applications
Common river stones are used in landscaping, construction aggregate, and as abrasives. High-purity quartz is used in glassmaking, electronics, and semi-conductors.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. These water-worn pebbles are often referred to as 'sugar quartz' when they have a grainy, white appearance due to tiny internal fractures.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its ability to scratch glass and its lack of cleavage. It is found globally in riverbeds, glacial tills, and along coastlines. It is an excellent beginner specimen for rock tumbling.
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Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
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Mineral
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
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