mineral
Small tumbled quartz pebble
Quartz, SiO₂
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectPale gray-beige and translucent, with a glassy-to-waxy surface; hardness 7 Mohs and trigonal crystal structure. The rounded shape appears naturally worn or tumbled; no cleavage, with conchoidal fracture when broken.
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Physical properties
Pale gray-beige and translucent, with a glassy-to-waxy surface; hardness 7 Mohs and trigonal crystal structure. The rounded shape appears naturally worn or tumbled; no cleavage, with conchoidal fracture when broken.
Formation & geological history
Quartz crystallizes from silica-rich fluids or magma and is among Earth’s most abundant minerals; its age and original host rock cannot be determined from the image. Pebbles become rounded through transport or mechanical tumbling.
Uses & applications
Commonly used for decorative stones, crafts, and inexpensive jewelry; quartz is also important in glassmaking and electronics.
Geological facts
Quartz is highly resistant to weathering, so it commonly accumulates in river and beach gravels.
Field identification & locations
Look for hardness, glassy luster, and lack of cleavage; quartz scratches glass. Similar-looking chalcedony or other pale pebbles cannot be ruled out from the photo alone; common worldwide.
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