mineral

White quartz pebble

Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Small rounded, white, fine-grained pebble with a dull-to-waxy luster, likely massive or microcrystalline quartz. Mohs hardness 7; no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and specific gravity about 2.65.

Identified September 20, 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

Small rounded, white, fine-grained pebble with a dull-to-waxy luster, likely massive or microcrystalline quartz. Mohs hardness 7; no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and specific gravity about 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Formed by erosion and transport of quartz-rich veins or silica-rich igneous/metamorphic rocks, then naturally rounded by water or abrasion. Its original host may be Precambrian to younger, but the pebble’s depositional age is undetermined.

Uses & applications

Used as decorative gravel, landscaping material, abrasives, glass and ceramics; attractive specimens may be collected, though this piece is unlikely to have jewelry value.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is chemically resistant, allowing it to persist as durable pebbles after surrounding minerals weather away.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness, lack of cleavage, glassy fracture, and inability to be scratched by a steel knife; white color may also indicate milky quartz. Common worldwide in streambeds, beaches, glacial deposits, and quartz veins.