mineral
Yellow Quartz Pebble
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Yellow-brownish to yellowish-tan; Luster: Waxy to vitreous; Crystal structure: Hexagonal/trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Yellow-brownish to yellowish-tan
- Luster
- Waxy to vitreous
Identified More mineral →
Explore Yellow Quartz Pebble in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Yellow-brownish to yellowish-tan; Luster: Waxy to vitreous; Crystal structure: Hexagonal/trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed through fluvial (river) erosion and weathering of quartz veins or iron-stained sedimentary/metamorphic rocks, resulting in a smooth, water-worn pebble.
Uses & applications
Commonly used as decorative river rock, landscaping aggregate, tumbling material for rock collectors, and occasionally in industrial construction.
Geological facts
Yellow coloration in quartz pebbles is often caused by micro-inclusions of iron oxides (like limonite or goethite) or surface staining from iron-rich soil and water over long periods.
Field identification & locations
Identified in the field by its hardness (scratches glass readily), rounded smooth water-worn surface, and dull to waxy luster. Found widespread along riverbeds, beaches, and gravel deposits worldwide.
