sedimentary
Chert Arrowhead (Flint Projectile Point)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) - Microcrystalline Quartz
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: reddish-brown, tan, and brownish-pink. Luster: waxy to vitreous. Cleavage: none (exhibits prominent conchoidal fracture). Microcrystalline aggregate structure.
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- reddish-brown, tan, and brownish-pink
- Luster
- waxy to vitreous
Identified More sedimentary →
Explore Chert Arrowhead (Flint Projectile Point) in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: reddish-brown, tan, and brownish-pink. Luster: waxy to vitreous. Cleavage: none (exhibits prominent conchoidal fracture). Microcrystalline aggregate structure.
Formation & geological history
Formed through biochemical and chemical precipitation of silica in marine environments, often replacing carbonate rocks (limestone or chalk). This piece was later knapped by humans into a functional tool or projectile point.
Uses & applications
Historically used as projectile points for hunting, weaponry, and cutting tools. Today, collected as archaeological artifacts, geological specimens, or educational display items.
Geological facts
Chert and flint were among the first materials used by early humans to make tools because of their ability to fracture predictably with sharp edges, a process known as flintknapping.
Field identification & locations
Identifiable by its sharp knapped edges, notched base, triangular profile, and smooth conchoidal fractures. Commonly found in limestone beds, stream beds, and archaeological sites.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Sedimentary Sandstone
Arenite (Sedimentary Rock)
sedimentary
Fossiliferous Concretion
Septarian Concretion containing Brachiopods/Crinoids
fossil
Shale
Shale (clastic sedimentary rock)
sedimentary
Shale
Argillaceous sedimentary rock
sedimentary
Mudstone
Argillite / Siliciclastic sedimentary rock
sedimentary