mineral

Yellow Quartz / Quartz Pebble

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

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

Identified July 27, 2026More mineral →

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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.