mineral

Tumbled milky quartz pebbles

Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness 7 Mohs; white to translucent, vitreous-to-waxy luster, granular crystalline texture, no obvious cleavage, and specific gravity about 2.65. The rounded shapes indicate tumbling or natural water abrasion; surface frosted/cloudy from inclusions or microfractures.

Identified August 24, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Quartz crystallizes from silica-rich igneous, hydrothermal, and metamorphic fluids, and commonly survives erosion as alluvial gravel. Quartz is widespread from Precambrian rocks to modern sediments; these pieces are likely commercially tumbled rather than a single datable formation.

Uses & applications

Used for inexpensive craft jewelry, metaphysical specimens, décor, abrasives, glass, and electronics-grade silica. These small pieces have minimal gem value.

Geological facts

Milky appearance is caused mainly by microscopic fluid inclusions, defects, and fractures scattering light. Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant and chemically durable minerals.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its glassy fracture, lack of cleavage, scratch resistance against ordinary glass, and inability to be scratched by a steel knife; calcite or glass may resemble it but are softer. Common worldwide, especially in quartz veins, pegmatites, and river gravels.