mineral
Tumbled quartz pebble
Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂), likely milky quartz
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness 7 Mohs; pale gray-green to milky, translucent, with a vitreous-to-waxy luster and no cleavage. Its rounded shape and surface wear indicate tumbling or natural water abrasion; the dark line is a fracture or inclusion.
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Physical properties
Hardness 7 Mohs; pale gray-green to milky, translucent, with a vitreous-to-waxy luster and no cleavage. Its rounded shape and surface wear indicate tumbling or natural water abrasion; the dark line is a fracture or inclusion.
Formation & geological history
Quartz crystallized from silica-rich igneous or hydrothermal fluids, commonly in veins and granitic rocks; such quartz may be hundreds of millions to billions of years old. The pebble was later weathered and rounded, or artificially tumbled.
Uses & applications
Used for glass, ceramics, abrasives, electronics, and construction aggregate; attractive pieces are sold as inexpensive lapidary or metaphysical specimens.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is chemically resistant, allowing it to survive transport as durable pebbles. The specimen may contain fluid inclusions or minor iron/chlorite causing its muted coloration.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its glassy appearance, lack of cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and ability to scratch ordinary glass; it should not be confused with softer calcite or man-made glass. Common worldwide, especially in stream gravels, quartz veins, and granite terrains.
