mineral
Yellow Quartz / Quartz Pebble
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Pale yellow to light brownish-orange. Luster: Vitreous to waxy. Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (Trigonal). Cleavage: None. Specific gravity: ~2.65.
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Pale yellow to light brownish-orange
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Pale yellow to light brownish-orange. Luster: Vitreous to waxy. Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (Trigonal). Cleavage: None. Specific gravity: ~2.65.
Formation & geological history
Formed in microcrystalline or macrocrystalline quartz veins, secondary deposits, or stream gravels through hydrothermal crystallization and subsequent water erosion and natural tumbling.
Uses & applications
Commonly collected as river pebbles, used for decorative landscaping, jewelry making, tumbling, and gemstone collections.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals on Earth's crust. Smooth, rounded quartz pebbles like this are formed when water action erodes quartz veins over long periods.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its hardness (scratches glass readily), light translucent yellowish color, smooth rounded pebble texture, and lack of distinct cleavage planes. Extremely common in stream beds, beaches, and gravel deposits worldwide.
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