mineral

Small tumbled quartz pebbles

Quartz, SiO₂; likely iron-stained and milky varieties

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

The upper specimen appears translucent yellow-brown with a resinous to vitreous luster, while the lower one is opaque white and granular. Quartz has hardness 7, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, hexagonal crystal structure, and specific gravity about 2.65.

Identified September 6, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Likely weathered quartz fragments or vein quartz transported in sediment and naturally rounded, possibly with iron-oxide staining producing the brown-yellow color. Quartz ranges from Precambrian to modern; age cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Common quartz is used in glass, ceramics, abrasives, electronics, and construction aggregate; attractive pieces are used as inexpensive lapidary or teaching specimens.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is highly resistant to weathering, so it commonly accumulates in streambeds and gravel deposits.

Field identification & locations

Identify by hardness—quartz can scratch ordinary glass—and its lack of cleavage and glassy fracture. Common sources include quartz veins, granitic terrains, beaches, and river gravels.