mineral

Small rounded quartz pebble

Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂), possibly milky quartz

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically Mohs hardness 7, white to cream color, vitreous to waxy luster, granular or cryptocrystalline texture, no obvious cleavage, and specific gravity about 2.65. The photographed piece is rounded and polished or naturally water-worn.

Identified September 5, 2026More mineral →

Explore Small rounded quartz pebble in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Quartz crystallized from silica-rich igneous or hydrothermal fluids and was later released by weathering and rounded by transport; its exact geological age and source cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Common quartz is used in glass, ceramics, abrasives, electronics, and countertops; attractive pieces are collected or used decoratively, though this small specimen has little commercial value.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is chemically resistant, allowing quartz pebbles to survive extensive erosion and transport.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its pale color, glassy/waxy surface, lack of cleavage, and ability to scratch ordinary glass; a steel blade generally will not scratch it. Common worldwide in river gravels, beaches, veins, and quartz-rich rocks.