mineral

Weathered quartz-rich pebble

Milky quartz, chiefly silicon dioxide (SiO₂), possibly with iron-oxide staining and minor feldspar

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Small rounded, brown-stained specimen with a pale gray-white, translucent interior and dull to weakly vitreous luster. Quartz hardness is about 7 Mohs, lacks cleavage, has a massive granular structure, and typically has a specific gravity near 2.65; the dark outer rind appears to be weathering or attached matrix.

Identified August 8, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Likely a naturally transported river, beach, or soil pebble formed by weathering and erosion of quartz-bearing igneous or metamorphic rock. Its exact geological age and locality cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Common quartz is used in glass, ceramics, abrasives, engineered stone, and electronics; attractive pieces may be sold as low-cost specimens, though this example appears primarily of educational interest.

Geological facts

Milky quartz becomes cloudy from microscopic fluid inclusions, fractures, or impurities. Iron oxides commonly produce the rusty brown surface staining seen here.

Field identification & locations

Check for glassy fracture, lack of cleavage, and inability to scratch it with a steel knife; quartz can scratch ordinary glass. Common worldwide, especially in quartz veins, granites, pegmatites, and stream gravels.