sedimentary
Chert Pebble (Jasper/Flint variant)
Microcrystalline Quartz (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs), Color: Tan to light brown with subtle banding, Luster: Dull to waxy, Crystal Structure: Cryptocrystalline, Fracture: Conchoidal
- Hardness
- 6
Identified More sedimentary →
Explore Chert Pebble (Jasper/Flint variant) in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs), Color: Tan to light brown with subtle banding, Luster: Dull to waxy, Crystal Structure: Cryptocrystalline, Fracture: Conchoidal
Formation & geological history
Formed via the accumulation of siliceous remains of marine organisms or chemical precipitation of silica in groundwater. This specimen has been rounded and smoothed by water erosion.
Uses & applications
Historically used for stone tools and fire-starting. Currently used in jewelry (tumbled stones), aquarium decor, and road construction aggregate.
Geological facts
Chert is extremely durable and chemically stable. The fine banding seen at the edge of this specimen indicates rhythmic deposition or varying mineral impurities during formation.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (scratches glass), smooth texture when water-worn, and conchoidal fracture if chipped. Commonly found on beaches, riverbeds, and in limestone outcrops.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Fossil-bearing concretion, possibly containing a fossil shell or other organic inclusion
Calcareous concretion; exact fossil and host-rock composition are not identifiable from the image
fossil
Fossiliferous Sedimentary Rock
Sedimentary limestone with invertebrate fossil imprint
fossil
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite
sedimentary
Shale
Shale (clastic sedimentary rock)
sedimentary
Shale (or Mudstone/Siltstone)
Sedimentary Mudrock (SiO2, Al2O3 base with clay minerals)
sedimentary