metamorphic

Banded river pebble, likely quartzite or metamorphosed sandstone

Quartzite (quartz-rich metamorphic rock), possibly banded sandstone

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Fine-grained, rounded and naturally smoothed; pale gray, pink, and brown parallel bands with a dull to subtly sparkling luster. Quartzite is typically Mohs 7, has no cleavage, and a specific gravity near 2.6–2.7.

Identified September 6, 2026More metamorphic →

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At a glance

Common name: Banded river pebble, likely quartzite or metamorphosed sandstone
Scientific name: Quartzite (quartz-rich metamorphic rock), possibly banded sandstone
Category: metamorphic
Identified: September 6, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Typically $1–$10 as a common collected pebble; perhaps $10–$30 if unusually attractive, polished, or sold as a lapidary specimen.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed when quartz-rich sandstone was buried and recrystallized under heat and pressure, preserving sedimentary layering; age cannot be determined from the image. Its rounded shape indicates later abrasion in a river, beach, or glacial setting.

Uses & applications

Primarily a decorative or collectible pebble; quartzite is also used as crushed stone, building stone, and aggregate, though this small specimen has no practical industrial value.

Geological facts

The specimen’s stripes may represent original sedimentary layers or mineral-rich bands. A glass-scratch test and examination of a fresh edge can help distinguish quartzite from softer sandstone.

Field identification & locations

Common in river gravels and glacial deposits worldwide, especially near quartz-rich mountain belts. Quartzite should resist scratching by a steel knife and commonly scratches glass; sandstone is usually more porous and visibly granular.