mineral

Quartz Pebble

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, typically white, clear, or off-white in water-worn pebble form, vitreous luster, conchoidal fracture, no true cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65.

Identified August 6, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, typically white, clear, or off-white in water-worn pebble form, vitreous luster, conchoidal fracture, no true cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Formed through crystallization from silica-rich solutions or magma, later weathered out from host rocks (like pegmatites or quartz veins) and smoothed by water transport in rivers or beaches.

Uses & applications

Used in landscaping, decorative stone, glass manufacturing, electronics, and lapidary work.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals in Earth's continental crust and exhibits piezoelectric properties, meaning it can generate an electric charge in response to applied mechanical stress.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its high hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and smooth water-worn shape found abundantly in riverbeds and coastal gravels.