metamorphic
Brown river pebble, likely iron-stained quartzite
Quartzite (predominantly SiO₂); identification is tentative from the photograph
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectRounded, fine-grained, opaque brown surface with a dull to slightly granular luster. Quartzite is chiefly interlocking quartz (Mohs hardness about 7), but the pebble’s exact composition and properties cannot be confirmed visually.
Identified More metamorphic →
Explore Brown river pebble, likely iron-stained quartzite in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Rounded, fine-grained, opaque brown surface with a dull to slightly granular luster. Quartzite is chiefly interlocking quartz (Mohs hardness about 7), but the pebble’s exact composition and properties cannot be confirmed visually.
Formation & geological history
Quartz-rich sandstone recrystallized under heat and pressure, then rounded by transport in water; its age depends on the source formation and cannot be determined from the image.
Uses & applications
Small pebbles are chiefly collected or used decoratively; quartzite also serves as aggregate, paving, and dimension stone.
Geological facts
Brown color commonly results from iron-oxide staining. A hard quartz-rich pebble may scratch glass, though that test alone does not establish quartzite.
Field identification & locations
The smooth, rounded shape suggests water wear; look for a hard, sugary or fused-looking quartz texture and no obvious layering. Similar pebbles occur in river and beach gravels worldwide.
More like this
