mineral
Tumbled milky quartz pebble
Quartz (SiO₂), likely massive milky quartz
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness 7 Mohs; white to cream, translucent, and vitreous to waxy luster. It has a trigonal crystal structure but no visible crystal faces or cleavage; conchoidal fracture and specific gravity about 2.65.
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Physical properties
Hardness 7 Mohs; white to cream, translucent, and vitreous to waxy luster. It has a trigonal crystal structure but no visible crystal faces or cleavage; conchoidal fracture and specific gravity about 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Forms when silica-rich fluids fill fractures and crystallize, commonly in veins within igneous or metamorphic rocks; individual quartz grains may be Precambrian to recent. Its rounded, smooth shape indicates natural water abrasion or tumbling.
Uses & applications
Used for ornaments, carvings, countertops, abrasives, and silica products; attractive pieces are inexpensive lapidary material rather than high-value gemstones.
Geological facts
The cloudy appearance comes from microscopic fluid inclusions, fractures, or mineral impurities. Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant and chemically resistant minerals.
Field identification & locations
Common in river gravels, beaches, quartz veins, and weathered granite terrains worldwide. Confirm with scratch testing: it should scratch ordinary glass, while a steel knife generally will not scratch it; surface coatings or polishing can affect results.
