mineral

Quartz Pebble

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Tan to milky white with visible staining; Luster: Vitreous to waxy (when weathered); Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Tan to milky white with visible staining
Luster: Vitreous to waxy (when weathered)

Identified April 4, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from cooling silica-rich hydrothermal fluids or magma as veins. This specific specimen is a 'clast' that has been eroded and smoothed by water transport (alluvial processes) in a river or beach environment.

Uses & applications

Common quartz is used in construction as aggregate, in glass manufacturing, and in electronics for its piezoelectric properties. Weathered pebbles are often used in landscaping or as aquarium gravel.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. This pebble shows significant iron-oxide staining (the yellowish/tan color), which is common for stones found in soil or river beds.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (will scratch glass and steel) and lack of cleavage. It is found globally in almost all geological settings. Look for the typical glassy luster underneath the weathered outer 'rind'.