sedimentary

Wishing Stone (Quartz-veined Sedimentary Pebble)

Silicified sedimentary rock with quartz vein (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 for the quartz vein (Mohs scale), 6-7 for the host rock; Color: Dark grey to greenish-grey host with a white or pale quartz band; Luster: Dull to vitreous on the vein; Crystal structure: Microcrystalline (host) and trigonal (quartz vein); Cleavage: None distinct in the pebble; Specific gravity: ~2.65

Hardness: 7 for the quartz vein (Mohs scale), 6-7 for the host rock
Luster: Dull to vitreous on the vein

Identified July 30, 2026More sedimentary →

Explore Wishing Stone (Quartz-veined Sedimentary Pebble) in the encyclopedia →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the accumulation and lithification of sediment into rock, followed by tectonic fracturing which allowed hydrothermal fluids rich in silica to precipitate quartz into the crack, forming a vein. This was subsequently smoothed by water action in a river, lake, or ocean environment.

Uses & applications

Often kept as a lucky charm, curiosity, or meditation stone ('wishing stone') due to the continuous ring or band around it; used in garden landscaping and decorative displays.

Geological facts

Folklore dictates that if you find a stone with an unbroken white line or ring completely encircling it, it is a 'wishing stone' or 'fairy stone' that possesses magical properties or can grant wishes if you trace the line with your finger.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified in the field by the distinct, contrasting quartz or calcite band wrapping around a darker host rock like basalt, siltstone, or sandstone. Found commonly in riverbeds and pebble beaches worldwide.

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