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, nonmetallic, and commonly massive rather than visibly crystalline. Quartz has a hexagonal crystal structure, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and specific gravity around 2.65.

Identified August 9, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Likely a naturally rounded stream, beach, or glacial pebble formed by weathering and transport of quartz-rich rock; its exact geological age cannot be determined from the image. Milky appearance results from microscopic fluid inclusions or fractures.

Uses & applications

Used for glass, ceramics, abrasives, engineered stone, and electronics; attractive pieces are sold as inexpensive mineral specimens or craft stones.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is highly resistant to chemical and physical weathering, allowing it to persist as rounded pebbles.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its white translucency, glassy fracture, lack of cleavage, and ability to scratch ordinary glass; a steel nail should not scratch it. Common in quartz veins, granitic terrains, river gravels, and beaches.