sedimentary

Baked-clay ceramic fragment (likely brick or pottery)

Fired clay, primarily aluminosilicate minerals; not a natural rock

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Tan, dull and earthy, opaque, porous, and irregularly fractured; hardness is roughly 4–6 Mohs but variable. The image shows a small manufactured fragment rather than visible natural crystals.

Identified August 15, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Tan, dull and earthy, opaque, porous, and irregularly fractured; hardness is roughly 4–6 Mohs but variable. The image shows a small manufactured fragment rather than visible natural crystals.

Formation & geological history

Formed from clay shaped and fired by humans, commonly at several hundred to over 1,000°C; its geological clay source may be ancient, but the specimen itself is not naturally formed.

Uses & applications

Typically used in bricks, tiles, pottery, or masonry; this fragment has negligible collector value, generally under $1.

Geological facts

Its uniform tan color and sharp conchoidal-like break are consistent with fired ceramic or brick, not a mineral specimen. It should technically be classified as man-made ceramic rather than igneous, sedimentary, or metamorphic rock.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its lightweight feel, porous texture, lack of crystal faces, and possible scratch resistance; dilute acid usually produces little reaction unless carbonate temper is present. Exact identification requires context or magnification.