mineral

Weathered quartz pebble (tentative)

Quartz, SiO₂; possibly iron-stained quartz or quartz-rich rock

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Small rounded tan-yellow pebble with a dull to slightly waxy surface and pale, cloudy interior; visible hardness and crystal structure cannot be confirmed from the photo. Quartz is Mohs 7, vitreous when freshly broken, and has no cleavage.

Identified October 3, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Likely quartz-bearing material weathered from rock, then rounded during transport in soil or stream sediment. Quartz is common in many rock types and spans a wide range of geological ages.

Uses & applications

This appears to be a common pebble, generally of little commercial value; quartz is widely used in glass, electronics, abrasives, and decorative stone.

Geological facts

The brown-yellow color may come from iron-oxide staining. The pictured specimen is too small and weathered for a precise identification from appearance alone.

Field identification & locations

Quartz is widespread, including in sedimentary terrain around the reported West Virginia area. A fresh scratch test (quartz should scratch glass) and a fresh broken surface would help distinguish it from softer or more opaque lookalikes.