sedimentary
Flint
Silicon Dioxide (Microcrystalline Quartz, SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, typically dark grey, brown, or black with a waxy to vitreous luster and conchoidal fracture.
Identified More sedimentary →
Explore Flint in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, typically dark grey, brown, or black with a waxy to vitreous luster and conchoidal fracture.
Formation & geological history
Forms by the replacement of calcium carbonate by silica-rich solutions in chalk or limestone formations during the Cretaceous period.
Uses & applications
Historically used for making stone tools and striking fire; currently used in abrasives, ceramics, and ornamental displays.
Geological facts
Flint was a crucial material for early human survival, utilized globally to create sharp blades, scrapers, and arrowheads due to its predictable conchoidal fracture.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its dark color, smooth weathered cortex, and distinct conchoidal fracture. Commonly found embedded in chalk deposits worldwide.
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