Mineral

Quartz Pebble

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Tan/white/off-white; Luster: Vitreous to waxy (when water-worn); Crystal structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: Tan/white/off-white
Luster: Vitreous to waxy (when water-worn)

Identified March 8, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Tan/white/off-white; Luster: Vitreous to waxy (when water-worn); Crystal structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed through the cooling of silica-rich magma or precipitation from hydrothermal veins. This specimen shows a rounded, 'pebble' shape, indicating it was eroded from parent rock and smoothed by water transport in a riverbed or coastal environment over thousands of years.

Uses & applications

Used in glass manufacturing, electronics (as oscillators), abrasives, construction aggregate, and as decorative gravel in landscaping.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Its name comes from the German word 'quarz', which had its origin in the Slavic and West Slavic languages meaning 'hard'.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (it will scratch glass) and lack of cleavage. Commonly found in riverbeds, beaches, and soil worldwide. Frequently found as part of 'river rock' mixes.