mineral

Small orange quartz pebble (likely iron-stained quartz)

Quartz, SiO₂

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Translucent peach-orange, vitreous to slightly dull luster; quartz is Mohs 7, trigonal crystal system, with no cleavage and conchoidal fracture. The orange tint may come from iron-oxide staining; the photograph does not show enough detail for a certain identification.

Identified September 26, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Quartz crystallizes from silica-rich fluids or magma and is also common in weathered sediments; this rounded pebble was likely transported and smoothed by water. Quartz occurs in rocks of many geological ages.

Uses & applications

Quartz is widely used in glass, electronics, abrasives, and jewelry; this small, ordinary pebble is mainly suitable for collecting or crafts.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is harder than most common materials, including steel. Iron oxides commonly stain otherwise colorless quartz orange or reddish.

Field identification & locations

Look for hardness near 7, glassy luster, and no cleavage; a steel knife generally will not scratch quartz. Quartz pebbles are found in stream and beach gravels worldwide.