mineral

White quartz pebble

Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂), likely milky quartz

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness 7 Mohs; white to translucent, vitreous-to-waxy luster, massive rather than visibly crystalline, with no obvious cleavage and conchoidal fracture. The rounded shape indicates natural or tumbled abrasion.

Identified August 13, 2026More mineral →

Explore White quartz pebble in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Quartz crystallizes from silica-rich igneous, hydrothermal, and metamorphic fluids; milky coloration comes from microscopic fluid inclusions. The individual specimen’s age cannot be determined visually, but its source rock may be millions to billions of years old.

Uses & applications

Common quartz is used in glass, ceramics, abrasives, electronics, and construction aggregate; attractive pieces are sold as inexpensive specimens or craft stones.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is resistant to weathering, allowing it to accumulate in stream gravels and beaches.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its glassy appearance, lack of cleavage, hardness, and inability to be scratched by steel; it should scratch window glass. Common worldwide, especially in quartz veins and alluvial deposits.