mineral

Rounded quartz-rich pebble, possibly milky quartz or quartzite

Quartz (SiO₂), potentially quartzite if recrystallized rock

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Pale translucent white to pinkish-gray, waxy to vitreous luster, smooth water-worn surface, and no obvious cleavage; quartz hardness is Mohs 7, while quartzite is similarly hard and granular.

Identified September 13, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Pale translucent white to pinkish-gray, waxy to vitreous luster, smooth water-worn surface, and no obvious cleavage; quartz hardness is Mohs 7, while quartzite is similarly hard and granular.

Formation & geological history

Likely formed as a quartz vein fragment or quartz-rich metamorphic rock, then rounded by stream, beach, or glacial abrasion. Its exact geological age cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Common quartz pebbles have little commercial value but are used in landscaping, craft polishing, and educational collections; attractive specimens may be tumbled or cabochon-cut.

Geological facts

Quartz commonly shows conchoidal fracture rather than cleavage and may appear translucent along thin edges. The pink tint can result from iron staining or microscopic inclusions.

Field identification & locations

Look for glassy translucence, hardness sufficient to scratch ordinary glass, and resistance to a steel knife. Common worldwide, especially in stream gravels, beaches, quartz veins, and quartzite terrains; identification is uncertain without a fresh break or hardness test.