mineral
Quartz River Pebble
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White to off-white with iron staining, Luster: Vitreous to waxy, Crystal Structure: Trigonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White to off-white with iron staining, Luster: Vitreous to waxy, Crystal Structure: Trigonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed from hydrothermal veins or as a constituent of igneous rocks, then weathered out and smoothed by water transport in a river or beach environment.
Uses & applications
Landscaping, decorative gravel, aquarium substrate, and occasionally used as a source of silica in glass manufacturing.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. These smooth shapes are created by saltation and abrasion against other rocks in moving water.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its hardness (will scratch glass) and lack of cleavage. Common in riverbeds, glacial deposits, and along coastlines globally.
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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