Quartz Pebble
Quartz var. Common Quartz · Mineral Specimen
Crystal System
Trigonal, massive or water-worn pebble habit
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicate)
Chemical Formula
SiO2
Formation Process
Sedimentary and weathering processes, mechanical erosion and transport of primary igneous or metamorphic quartz
About This Crystal
A small, weathered, rounded pebble of quartz resting on blue denim fabric. It exhibits a pale grayish-white or tan exterior with a matte, slightly worn surface texture due to aqueous transport and abrasion.
Physical Characteristics
Color varies from white to translucent gray; streak is white; cleavage is absent; fracture is conchoidal; specific gravity is approximately 2.65; tenacity is brittle
Optical Properties
Refractive index ranges from 1.544 to 1.553; uniaxial positive optical sign; birefringence is 0.009; typically translucent to opaque in this weathered pebble state
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Worldwide, commonly found in riverbeds, beaches, and alluvial deposits
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 7; excellent durability, highly resistant to scratching and chemical weathering, making it very suitable for general wear
Care & Maintenance
Can be safely cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft brush; avoid harsh hydrofluoric acid; highly stable and does not easily fade in sunlight
Rarity & Value
Extremely common; low commercial value as a raw pebble, primarily of interest as an educational mineral specimen or lapidary rough
Special Characteristics
Piezoelectric and pyroelectric properties inherent to crystalline quartz; water-worn surface indicative of secondary alluvial transport
Lore & History
Quartz has been used by ancient humans for millennia to create stone tools and ornaments. In modern metaphysical traditions, clear and common quartz is regarded as a master healer, believed to amplify energy and aid in clarity and spiritual alignment, though these are traditional beliefs without scientific backing