mineral

Tumbled golden quartz pebble

Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂), likely iron-stained or included quartz

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness 7 Mohs; translucent cream to honey-yellow color, vitreous luster, and massive/granular crystalline structure. Quartz has no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and specific gravity about 2.65.

Identified August 18, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness 7 Mohs; translucent cream to honey-yellow color, vitreous luster, and massive/granular crystalline structure. Quartz has no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and specific gravity about 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Quartz crystallizes from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids or igneous melts; the yellow coloration commonly results from iron-oxide staining or inclusions. The specimen appears naturally worn or tumbled, but its precise geological age and locality cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Used in glass, ceramics, electronics, abrasives, and engineered stone; attractive pieces are sold as inexpensive lapidary or decorative specimens.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is the defining component of many quartz veins and sandstones. Golden coloration should not automatically be called citrine, which is usually transparent crystalline quartz with iron-related color.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its glassy luster, high hardness, lack of cleavage, and conchoidal fracture; it should scratch ordinary glass. Common worldwide, especially in hydrothermal veins and weathered granitic terrains.