sedimentary
Clay
Hydrous aluminum phyllosilicate
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 1-2 on Mohs scale, earthy luster, colors range from white to brown and red, monoclinic crystal structure.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 1-2 on Mohs scale, earthy luster, colors range from white to brown and red, monoclinic crystal structure.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the chemical weathering of silicate-bearing rocks over geological timescales in wet environments.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in ceramics, brick making, construction, and pottery.
Geological facts
Clay minerals are microscopic in size and possess a layered structure that traps water molecules between sheets.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its fine-grained texture and plasticity when wet; found globally in soil, riverbeds, and sedimentary deposits.
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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
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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