metamorphic

River Pebble (likely Quartzite or Basalt)

Quartzite (SiO2 as primary mineral)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Grey with white quartz veining; Luster: Dull/earthy (weathered surface); Texture: Fine-grained and water-worn; SG: 2.6-2.7

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale
Color: Grey with white quartz veining
Luster: Dull/earthy (weathered surface)

Identified June 25, 2026More metamorphic →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Grey with white quartz veining; Luster: Dull/earthy (weathered surface); Texture: Fine-grained and water-worn; SG: 2.6-2.7

Formation & geological history

Formed via the metamorphism of quartz-rich sandstone under intense heat and pressure. The rounded shape is the result of mechanical erosion in a high-energy water environment (river or beach) over thousands of years.

Uses & applications

Commonly used as decorative landscaping stone, drainage material, or as a pocket stone/worry stone for collectors. Industrially, crushed quartzite is used in road construction and glass manufacturing.

Geological facts

River pebbles like this one are nature's tumblers; the smooth, oval shape is a record of the stone traveling miles downstream, colliding with other rocks to wear away sharp edges.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its rounded 'ovoid' shape, smooth texture, and white quartz veins cutting through the darker matrix. Found globally in riverbeds, glacial deposits, and coastal beaches.