mineral

White quartz pebble

Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Likely a rounded, polished or naturally tumbled quartz piece: white to translucent, vitreous-to-waxy luster, Mohs hardness 7, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and trigonal crystal structure. The uniformly smooth triangular form suggests abrasion or human tumbling.

Identified August 25, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Quartz crystallizes from silica-rich igneous, hydrothermal, and metamorphic fluids; this pebble likely weathered from quartz-rich rock and was transported and rounded by water or deliberately tumbled. Its exact geological age and locality cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Used in glassmaking, ceramics, electronics, abrasives, countertops, and ornamental objects; attractive clear or colored varieties are used as gemstones. This small common pebble has minimal commercial value.

Geological facts

White quartz commonly owes its opacity to microscopic fluid inclusions, fractures, or numerous tiny crystals. It can resemble white calcite, but quartz is substantially harder and will scratch ordinary glass.

Field identification & locations

Common worldwide in river gravels, beaches, veins, quartzite, and granitic terrains; test with a steel file or glass-scratch test, while avoiding damage to valuable specimens. Identification is provisional from the photograph.