metamorphic

Iron-rich quartzite or weathered ironstone

Quartzite dominated by quartz (SiO₂), with iron oxides/hydroxides such as hematite and goethite

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 6.5–7; rusty brown, orange, gray, and metallic-looking patches; generally nonmetallic to locally submetallic luster, granular texture, and no obvious cleavage. The surface appears heavily weathered and iron-stained.

Identified August 9, 2026More metamorphic →

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At a glance

Common name: Iron-rich quartzite or weathered ironstone
Scientific name: Quartzite dominated by quartz (SiO₂), with iron oxides/hydroxides such as hematite and goethite
Category: metamorphic
Identified: August 9, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $1–$10 as a common hand specimen; $10–$40 if unusually colorful, crystalline, or sold as a labeled mineral specimen.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Likely formed when quartz-rich sandstone was metamorphosed into quartzite, followed by oxidation and weathering that concentrated iron minerals; its precise age cannot be determined from the photograph. Common in Precambrian and other ancient metamorphic terrains.

Uses & applications

Used as aggregate, building stone, and occasionally ornamental material; ordinary pieces have little jewelry value unless unusually attractive or mineral-rich.

Geological facts

Quartzite commonly scratches glass and resists weak acid, while iron staining produces red-brown colors. The specimen may also be a silicified ironstone, which requires a fresh surface or testing for confident distinction.

Field identification & locations

Look for a very hard, fused quartz-grain texture and rusty coatings; a steel nail should not scratch it, and a magnet may detect magnetite if present. Common in metamorphic belts, hillsides, and gravel deposits.