metamorphic
Quartzite Beach Pebble (with Quartz Vein)
SiO2 (Quartzite)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Pale grayish-green to light grayish-brown with a distinct white quartz vein traversing the surface. Luster: Waxy to greasy when water-worn or smooth; vitreous on fresh fractures. Crystal Structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline/interlocking grains). Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture).…
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Luster
- Waxy to greasy when water-worn or smooth
Identified More metamorphic →
Explore Quartzite Beach Pebble (with Quartz Vein) in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Pale grayish-green to light grayish-brown with a distinct white quartz vein traversing the surface. Luster: Waxy to greasy when water-worn or smooth; vitreous on fresh fractures. Crystal Structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline/interlocking grains). Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: ~2.65.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the regional or contact metamorphism of quartz-rich sandstone under intense heat and pressure, causing quartz grains to recrystallize into an interlocking network. Water action on a beach or riverbed has naturally tumbled and rounded this specimen.
Uses & applications
Commonly collected as river or beach pebbles, used in decorative landscaping, aquarium decor, gravel paths, and occasionally tumbled for lapidary crafts.
Geological facts
Quartzite pebbles are extremely durable due to their high silica content and interlocking crystal lattice, allowing them to withstand centuries of wave and river abrasion that wears away softer surrounding rocks.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its rounded water-worn shape, pale translucent greenish-gray hue, hardness (it easily scratches glass and steel), and prominent white quartz vein running through it. Found abundantly on rocky beaches, gravel bars, and river beds globally.
More like this
