mineral

Tumbled quartz pebble, likely iron-stained quartz

Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂), possibly milky quartz with limonite/goethite staining

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Small rounded pebble with a pale translucent-to-opaque body, vitreous to waxy luster, and yellow-brown surface staining. Quartz has Mohs hardness 7, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, hexagonal crystal structure, and specific gravity about 2.65; the photograph alone cannot confirm exact variety.

Identified August 27, 2026More mineral →

Explore Tumbled quartz pebble, likely iron-stained quartz in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

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

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Quartz formed from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids or igneous/metamorphic rocks, then weathered and naturally or artificially rounded. Quartz is geologically widespread and occurs from Precambrian to modern deposits.

Uses & applications

Used for glass, ceramics, abrasives, electronics, and construction aggregate; attractive pieces are sold as inexpensive cabochons or specimens.

Geological facts

Iron oxides commonly produce yellow, orange, or brown coatings on quartz. It should scratch ordinary glass but not be scratched by a steel knife.

Field identification & locations

Common in stream gravels, quartz veins, pegmatites, and weathered rock. Confirm with a glass-scratch test, hardness, and lack of cleavage; acid testing is unnecessary. The lower white object appears to be a fingernail, not part of the specimen.