metamorphic

Rounded quartz-rich pebble

Likely quartzite (dominantly SiO₂); identification is uncertain from the blurry image

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Tan to cream, mottled, and dull to slightly glassy, with a massive, granular appearance and no obvious cleavage. Quartz hardness is 7 Mohs; specific gravity is about 2.65.

Identified October 8, 2026More metamorphic →

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Physical properties

Tan to cream, mottled, and dull to slightly glassy, with a massive, granular appearance and no obvious cleavage. Quartz hardness is 7 Mohs; specific gravity is about 2.65.

Formation & geological history

If quartzite, it formed when quartz-rich sandstone was recrystallized by heat and pressure; such rocks occur across many geological ages. Its rounded shape likely resulted from transport and abrasion in water.

Uses & applications

Primarily a collector or decorative pebble; quartzite is also used as building stone, aggregate, and paving material.

Geological facts

Quartzite is composed mostly of interlocking quartz grains and is generally harder than its sandstone precursor.

Field identification & locations

Look for a hard, dense rock with fused-looking quartz grains; a steel knife should not readily scratch it. Rounded quartz-rich pebbles occur in stream and beach gravels worldwide.