mineral

Tumbled translucent pebble, likely quartz or pale chalcedony

Quartz (SiO₂), possibly microcrystalline chalcedony

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Small, rounded, translucent cream-white specimen with a glassy to waxy luster; quartz hardness is 7 Mohs, chalcedony about 6.5–7, with no obvious cleavage and conchoidal fracture. Exact identification is limited by the photograph and strong backlighting.

Identified September 5, 2026More mineral →

Explore Tumbled translucent pebble, likely quartz or pale chalcedony 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 crystallizes from silica-rich igneous, hydrothermal, and metamorphic fluids; chalcedony forms when silica precipitates into cavities and fractures. Such tumbled pieces may be millions to billions of years old, depending on their source rock.

Uses & applications

Common quartz and chalcedony are used for abrasives, glass, ceramics, electronics, and decorative stones; attractive polished pieces are sold as inexpensive collectibles.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is piezoelectric. The rounded shape and smooth surface indicate human tumbling or water wear rather than a natural crystal form.

Field identification & locations

Look for hardness sufficient to scratch ordinary glass, translucent edges, and conchoidal fracture; a steel nail should not scratch it readily. Common worldwide, especially in quartz veins, river gravels, and silica-rich volcanic rocks.