mineral

Tumbled quartz pebble

Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂), probably milky or iron-stained quartz

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness 7 Mohs; translucent gray-white to honey-brown, vitreous to waxy luster, and massive granular texture rather than visible crystals. Quartz has a hexagonal crystal structure, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and specific gravity about 2.65.

Identified August 17, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Likely weathered from quartz-rich igneous or metamorphic rock and naturally rounded by stream or shoreline transport; iron-oxide staining accounts for the brown coloration. Quartz formed in many geological ages and settings, commonly from hydrothermal veins or cooling silica-rich magma.

Uses & applications

Used in glass, ceramics, electronics, abrasives, engineered stone, and as an inexpensive ornamental or lapidary material. This ordinary pebble has minimal commercial value.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant and durable minerals; its resistance to weathering allows it to survive as rounded sedimentary pebbles.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its glassy appearance, lack of cleavage, conchoidal fractures, and ability to scratch ordinary steel or glass. Common worldwide in stream gravels, beaches, quartz veins, and quartz-rich rocks.