mineral

Small quartz-rich pebble, possibly milky quartz

Quartz (SiO₂), likely massive or microcrystalline quartz

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

White to translucent, vitreous to waxy luster, irregular fracture, and no obvious cleavage; Mohs hardness 7 and specific gravity about 2.65. The photograph is insufficient to confirm crystal faces or distinguish quartz from a pale feldspar/calcite fragment.

Identified August 24, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Quartz commonly crystallizes from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids, igneous melts, or weathered veins; most specimens are Precambrian to recent. This rounded piece was likely transported and abraded in gravel or beach sediment.

Uses & applications

Used in glass, ceramics, electronics, abrasives, engineered stone, and decorative specimens; this small fragment has negligible commercial value.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is piezoelectric. Milky appearance results from microscopic fluid inclusions or fractures scattering light.

Field identification & locations

Test hardness against glass: quartz scratches it, while a steel knife generally does not. Effervescence in dilute acid would suggest calcite instead; a streak and close inspection of cleavage would help separate feldspar.