igneous
Weathered quartz-rich pebble
Likely quartzite or silicified granitoid; mainly microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness about 7 Mohs; pale cream to gray, dull to weakly vitreous luster, very fine-grained with irregular brown surface staining and possible quartz veins. Cleavage absent; specific gravity approximately 2.6–2.7.
Identified More igneous →
Explore Weathered quartz-rich pebble in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness about 7 Mohs; pale cream to gray, dull to weakly vitreous luster, very fine-grained with irregular brown surface staining and possible quartz veins. Cleavage absent; specific gravity approximately 2.6–2.7.
Formation & geological history
Probably a rounded, water-worn fragment derived from weathered quartzite or quartz-rich igneous rock; its exact geological age and source cannot be determined from the image.
Uses & applications
Commonly collected as a field pebble or used decoratively; if quartzite, it can serve as aggregate or dimension stone, but this small specimen has little commercial value.
Geological facts
The smooth oval shape indicates transport by water or abrasion. Creamy coloration may result from iron-oxide staining, weathering, or altered feldspar.
Field identification & locations
Test with a steel file or knife: genuine quartz-rich material should resist scratching; glassy quartz grains and a white streak support identification. Common in streambeds, beaches, and glacial deposits.
