mineral

Tumbled milky quartz pebble

Quartz (SiO₂), likely massive milky quartz

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

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.

Identified September 3, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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.