mineral
Quartz Pebbles
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness 7 on Mohs scale; luster varies from waxy to vitreous; colors range from opaque white (milky quartz) to brownish-gray; no cleavage; conchoidal fracture.
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Physical properties
Hardness 7 on Mohs scale; luster varies from waxy to vitreous; colors range from opaque white (milky quartz) to brownish-gray; no cleavage; conchoidal fracture.
Formation & geological history
Formed from molten magma cooling at various temperatures or precipitated from hydrothermal veins. These specific specimens are river-worn or weathered pebbles found in alluvial deposits.
Uses & applications
Raw quartz is used in the glass and ceramics industry, for abrasives, and as a material for clocks and electronics (piezoelectric). Tumbled versions are used in jewelry.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Pure quartz, traditionally called rock crystal, is colorless and transparent.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (will scratch glass) and lack of cleavage. Common in riverbeds, beaches, and gravel pits worldwide.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous