metamorphic
Rounded quartz-rich pebble, likely quartzite or vein quartz
Quartzite (mostly SiO₂), possibly quartz-rich metamorphic rock
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness about 7 Mohs; pale gray to whitish, granular and subtly sparkly, with a vitreous to dull luster. Quartz has a trigonal crystal structure and lacks cleavage; the rounded shape reflects stream or beach abrasion.
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Physical properties
Hardness about 7 Mohs; pale gray to whitish, granular and subtly sparkly, with a vitreous to dull luster. Quartz has a trigonal crystal structure and lacks cleavage; the rounded shape reflects stream or beach abrasion.
Formation & geological history
If quartzite, it formed when quartz-rich sandstone recrystallized under heat and pressure, commonly during regional metamorphism; its exact geological age cannot be determined from the image. It may instead be a weathered vein-quartz fragment.
Uses & applications
Usually used as aggregate, riprap, landscaping stone, and occasionally as decorative stone; attractive pieces may be collected but are rarely gem-quality.
Geological facts
Quartzite commonly breaks across grains rather than around them and can scratch ordinary glass. Surface crust, weathering, and poor lighting make exact identification uncertain from an image alone.
Field identification & locations
Common in streams, beaches, glacial deposits, and areas underlain by metamorphic or quartz-vein rocks. Test with a steel nail or glass, inspect a fresh fracture for fused quartz grains, and use acid only to check for carbonate coatings.
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