Mineral / Sedimentary occurrence
Quartz Pebble
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White to semi-translucent, Luster: Vitreous to waxy (when river-worn), Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (Conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
Identified More mineral / sedimentary occurrence →
Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White to semi-translucent, Luster: Vitreous to waxy (when river-worn), Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (Conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids or within igneous/metamorphic rocks. This specific specimen has been shaped and smoothed through mechanical weathering and erosion in a high-energy aquatic environment like a riverbed or beach.
Uses & applications
Used as decorative landscaping stone, in construction aggregates, as a source for glass manufacturing, and as tumbled stones for decorative or spiritual purposes.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Its high hardness prevents it from wearing down as quickly as other minerals, which is why quartz pebbles often dominate riverbeds.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its ability to scratch glass (hardness 7) and lack of cleavage planes. Its rounded 'potato' shape indicates long-distance water transport. Can be found worldwide in almost any gravel pit or stream.
More like this
Other mineral / sedimentary occurrence specimens
Milky Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
mineral
White Quartz (Milky Quartz)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
mineral
White Quartz (Milky Quartz)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
mineral
Yellow Ocher (Limonite)
Limonite (Hydrated Iron Oxide) - FeO(OH)·nH2O
mineral
White Agate / Chalcedony
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
mineral
Ironstone (with possible Hematite/Limonite coating)
Ironstone (Fe-rich sedimentary rock)
sedimentary