metamorphic
Quartzite Pebble (Iron-stained Quartz)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Iron Oxide (Fe2O3) inclusions
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Tan, brown, yellowish-orange with reddish undertones. Luster: Waxy to vitreous. Structure: Microcrystalline/metamorphic interlocking quartz grains. Fracture: Conchoidal to irregular.
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Tan, brown, yellowish-orange with reddish undertones
- Luster
- Waxy to vitreous
Identified More metamorphic →
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Tan, brown, yellowish-orange with reddish undertones. Luster: Waxy to vitreous. Structure: Microcrystalline/metamorphic interlocking quartz grains. Fracture: Conchoidal to irregular.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the metamorphism of quartz-rich sandstone under intense heat and pressure. River and glacial action weathered and rounded the rock into a water-worn pebble, with iron oxides leaching into small surface pores and fractures.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in landscaping, river rock aggregate, decorative garden stones, lapidary tumbling, and educational rock collections.
Geological facts
Quartzite is extremely resistant to chemical and physical weathering, often surviving long transport in rivers. The small pitting on the surface often results from the weathering out of softer accessory minerals like feldspar or mica.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its high hardness (scratches glass readily), smooth stream-worn exterior, waxy texture, and yellowish-brown iron staining along micro-fractures. Commonly found in riverbeds, beach gravels, and glacial till worldwide.
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