mineral

Small tumbled quartz pebble

Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Likely hardness 7 Mohs, white to cream color, vitreous-to-waxy luster, and a massive rather than visibly crystalline texture. It shows no obvious cleavage; specific gravity is about 2.65.

Identified September 5, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Likely hardness 7 Mohs, white to cream color, vitreous-to-waxy luster, and a massive rather than visibly crystalline texture. It shows no obvious cleavage; specific gravity is about 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Quartz commonly crystallizes from silica-rich igneous or hydrothermal fluids and survives weathering as rounded stream or beach pebbles; its age depends on the source rock, commonly millions to billions of years. The rounded shape suggests natural abrasion or tumbling.

Uses & applications

Common quartz pebbles are used for landscaping, crafts, décor, and teaching specimens; clear or attractive varieties may be used in jewelry. This small, ordinary piece has limited commercial value.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is piezoelectric, generating an electrical charge under pressure. Its pale appearance could also reflect milky quartz or a quartz-rich rock such as quartzite.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its glassy sheen, lack of cleavage, hardness sufficient to scratch ordinary glass, and resistance to steel. Common worldwide, especially in river gravels, beaches, veins, and quartz-rich rocks.