metamorphic
Blue quartz-rich rock, likely dumortierite quartz
Dumortierite-bearing quartzite; quartz (SiO₂) with blue dumortierite (Al₇(BO₃)(SiO₄)₃O₃)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectBlue-and-white mottled, rough, granular specimen with a vitreous-to-dull luster; quartz has Mohs hardness 7 and hexagonal crystal structure, while dumortierite is about 7–8. The photo does not show enough detail to confirm the minerals or determine cleavage and specific gravity.
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Physical properties
Blue-and-white mottled, rough, granular specimen with a vitreous-to-dull luster; quartz has Mohs hardness 7 and hexagonal crystal structure, while dumortierite is about 7–8. The photo does not show enough detail to confirm the minerals or determine cleavage and specific gravity.
Formation & geological history
Likely formed when silica-rich rock recrystallized during metamorphism, with dumortierite imparting blue color. Such rocks form in aluminum- and boron-rich settings; an age cannot be determined from the image.
Uses & applications
Attractive material may be used for lapidary work, beads, or small decorative objects; quartzite is also used as aggregate and building stone.
Geological facts
Blue quartzite is sometimes sold as dumortierite quartz, though similar blue-and-white rocks can contain other minerals.
Field identification & locations
Look for a hard, granular rock with blue patches in a white quartz-rich matrix; quartz should scratch glass and resist a steel blade. A mineral test or lab analysis is needed for a firm identification.
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