sedimentary

Wishing Stone (Sandstone with Quartz Vein)

Arenite with Quartzite intrusion (SiO₂)

Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Grey matrix with a distinct white/tan band; Luster: Dull/Earthy matrix with a slightly vitreous band; Crystal structure: Granular clastic matrix with macrocrystalline vein; Cleavage: None.

Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale)
Color: Grey matrix with a distinct white/tan band
Luster: Dull/Earthy matrix with a slightly vitreous band

Identified April 12, 2026More sedimentary →

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 the lithification of sand particles over millions of years. The white stripe is a 'vein' created when silica-rich hydrothermal fluids filled a crack in the rock and crystallized as quartz. Later rounded by water erosion (river or beach action).

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a decorative pocket stone, for garden landscaping, or as a charm in folklore. The base sandstone can be used in construction as a building material.

Geological facts

In folklore, these are called 'Wishing Stones.' The legend states that if you find a stone with a single continuous white line encircling it, you can make a wish. If the line is broken, the wish won't come true.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by looking for smooth, water-worn pebbles with a single, unbroken white band. They are common on temperate beaches and in riverbeds globally.

Other sedimentary specimens

See all

Sandstone or Siltstone

Arenite (if sandstone)

Sedimentary

Sandstone

Arenite (primarily SiO2)

sedimentary

Shale or Slaty Mudstone

Argillaceous sedimentary rock

sedimentary

Chert Breccia

Brecciated Chert (Microcrystalline Silica)

sedimentary

Sandstone (Quartz-rich)

Arenite (SiO2)

sedimentary

Sandstone (with man-made markings)

Arenite (composed primarily of Quartz, SiO2)

sedimentary