mineral

Translucent quartz pebble (likely milky quartz)

Quartz, SiO₂; exact variety cannot be confirmed from the photograph

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

White to colorless, translucent, with a glassy-to-waxy appearance; hardness 7 Mohs and no cleavage. The uneven, cloudy interior may reflect inclusions or fractures; crystal structure is trigonal.

Identified September 30, 2026More mineral →

Explore Translucent quartz pebble (likely milky quartz) in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

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

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

White to colorless, translucent, with a glassy-to-waxy appearance; hardness 7 Mohs and no cleavage. The uneven, cloudy interior may reflect inclusions or fractures; crystal structure is trigonal.

Formation & geological history

Quartz commonly forms in hydrothermal veins and igneous or metamorphic rocks, then survives weathering as rounded stream or soil pebbles. Its age cannot be determined visually.

Uses & applications

Quartz is used in glass, ceramics, electronics, and as a collector specimen; this small, rough pebble has little jewelry value unless cut or polished.

Geological facts

The bright glow is transmitted light, not evidence of fluorescence; many quartz pebbles appear luminous when held over a phone light.

Field identification & locations

Look for hardness (it should scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and conchoidal fracture. Quartz is widespread, including in volcanic and metamorphic terrain in central Mexico; the coarse location prior is plausible but not diagnostic.