mineral
Tumbled white quartz or quartzite pebble
Quartz (SiO₂), possibly massive quartzite
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectWhite, opaque to slightly translucent, with a dull-to-glassy luster and no visible crystal faces; quartz hardness is Mohs 7, while quartzite is similarly hard and granular. The rounded shape indicates natural abrasion or tumbling, and the dark marks may be surface inclusions or scratches.
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Physical properties
White, opaque to slightly translucent, with a dull-to-glassy luster and no visible crystal faces; quartz hardness is Mohs 7, while quartzite is similarly hard and granular. The rounded shape indicates natural abrasion or tumbling, and the dark marks may be surface inclusions or scratches.
Formation & geological history
Quartz formed from silica-rich fluids or igneous/metamorphic processes; quartzite formed when quartz sandstone was metamorphosed. The specimen’s precise geological age and origin cannot be determined from the image alone.
Uses & applications
Used as a decorative pebble, lapidary material, aggregate, and source of silica; attractive pieces may be used in crafts or simple jewelry.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and has a distinctive hardness that can scratch ordinary glass. A steel knife generally will not scratch it, though testing may damage the specimen.
Field identification & locations
Common in river gravels, beaches, veins, and weathered quartz-bearing rocks worldwide; identify by white color, hardness, conchoidal fracture, and lack of acid reaction. A streak, scratch, or translucency test can distinguish it from calcite or ceramic.
