mineral

White Quartz Pebble

Quartz (Silicon Dioxide - SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to opaque; Luster: Vitreous to waxy (smooth/matte when water-worn); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: Indistinct/Conchoidal; SG: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Milky white to opaque
Luster: Vitreous to waxy (smooth/matte when water-worn)

Identified July 10, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to opaque; Luster: Vitreous to waxy (smooth/matte when water-worn); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: Indistinct/Conchoidal; SG: 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Formed from the cooling of silica-rich magma or precipitation in hydrothermal veins. This specimen is a 'river stone' or 'beach pebble', meaning it has been mechanically weathered and rounded by water action over centuries.

Uses & applications

Commonly used in landscaping, as decorative aggregate in construction, as a source for glass manufacturing, and in jewelry/bead making. High-purity quartz is used in electronics.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Pure quartz is clear; the white 'milky' color is caused by tiny inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (it will easily scratch glass) and its smooth, rounded triangular shape typical of river-tumble. Found globally in riverbeds, beaches, and glacial deposits.