sedimentary
Chert (Flint)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: tan, grey, white with brown staining, Luster: waxy to dull, Crystal structure: Microcrystalline quartz, Cleavage: none (conchoidal fracture), Specific gravity: 2.6
Identified More sedimentary →
Explore Chert (Flint) in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: tan, grey, white with brown staining, Luster: waxy to dull, Crystal structure: Microcrystalline quartz, Cleavage: none (conchoidal fracture), Specific gravity: 2.6
Formation & geological history
Chemical sedimentary process involving the accumulation of silica-rich organic remains or chemical precipitation from groundwater within limestone or chalk beds.
Uses & applications
Historical toolmaking, modern abrasives, architectural accents, and road construction material.
Geological facts
Flint is a variety of chert that has been used by humans for millennia to create sharp tools and start fires due to its ability to produce sparks when struck against steel.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its extreme hardness (cannot be scratched by a steel blade) and its smooth, shell-like (conchoidal) fracture surfaces. Commonly found in riverbeds, fields, and sedimentary cliff faces.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Fossiliferous Sedimentary Rock
Sedimentary limestone with invertebrate fossil imprint
fossil
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Quartz pebble
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
sedimentary
Generic Pebble / Rock Fragment
Lithic fragment / Weathered rock
sedimentary
Sedimentary Sandstone
Arenite (Sedimentary Rock)
sedimentary
Shale (or Mudstone/Siltstone)
Sedimentary Mudrock (SiO2, Al2O3 base with clay minerals)
sedimentary