mineral

Weathered quartz-rich pebble (likely milky quartz or quartzite)

Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂); possibly quartzite, a metamorphic quartz rock

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

White to cream, opaque, and weakly translucent with a dull-to-glassy luster; apparent hardness about Mohs 7, no obvious cleavage, and irregular fracture. The rounded shape and surface staining indicate abrasion and weathering.

Identified August 11, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

If milky quartz, it crystallized from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids in veins; if quartzite, it formed when sandstone was metamorphosed and recrystallized. The specimen’s geological age cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Common quartz is used in glass, ceramics, abrasives, engineered stone, and electronics; attractive pieces may be collected, though this small weathered pebble has little commercial value.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is highly resistant to weathering, allowing quartz pebbles to persist in river and beach gravels.

Field identification & locations

Likely identification clues are its pale color, very high scratch resistance, lack of cleavage, and granular or glassy fracture. It could be tested by scratching glass and checking for acid reaction; common sources include stream gravels, beaches, quartz veins, and quartzite outcrops.