metamorphic
Quartzite Pebble (with mineral veining)
Metamorphic Quartzite (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Off-white, yellowish to tan with dark greyish-black manganese/iron mineral veining; Luster: Waxy to dull vitreous; Crystal structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline/interlocking grain structure); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: ~2.65
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Luster
- Waxy to dull vitreous
Identified More metamorphic →
Explore Quartzite Pebble (with mineral veining) 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: Off-white, yellowish to tan with dark greyish-black manganese/iron mineral veining; Luster: Waxy to dull vitreous; Crystal structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline/interlocking grain structure); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: ~2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed from the regional metamorphism of quartz sandstones under intense heat and pressure. The pebble was subsequently rounded and smoothed by water erosion in a beach, river, or coastal environment. The dark circular markings are secondary mineral veins or dendritic inclusions filling fractures.
Uses & applications
Primarily collected as a beach pebble, decorative stone, or pocket rock. Larger quartzite deposits are used as construction aggregate, crushed stone, or decorative landscaping material.
Geological facts
Smooth beach pebbles in the Aegean and Attica region (around Athens, Greece) frequently feature quartzites and marbles with intricate secondary mineral veining. These curved lines are natural micro-fractures filled with manganese oxides or chloritic matter.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (cannot be scratched by steel), smooth water-worn surface, microcrystalline quartz texture, and distinct contrasting mineral veins. Highly abundant along Mediterranean coastlines.
More like this
