sedimentary

Iron-rich sandstone or ferruginous conglomeratic sandstone

Ferruginous sandstone, primarily quartz (SiO₂) cemented or stained by iron oxides/hydroxides

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Brown to rusty orange, granular and porous, with visible sand- to pebble-sized grains; dull to earthy luster and no obvious cleavage. Quartz grains have Mohs hardness 7, while the overall rock is typically moderately hard (about 5–7) and specific gravity commonly 2.3–2.7.

Identified September 14, 2026More sedimentary →

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At a glance

Common name: Iron-rich sandstone or ferruginous conglomeratic sandstone
Scientific name: Ferruginous sandstone, primarily quartz (SiO₂) cemented or stained by iron oxides/hydroxides
Category: sedimentary
Identified: September 14, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $2–$15 for a common hand specimen; $20–$50 if unusually attractive, polished, or regionally collectible.

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

Formed when quartz-rich sand, locally mixed with small pebbles, was deposited and lithified; iron-bearing groundwater produced the orange-brown cement or staining. Age cannot be determined from the image and may range from Precambrian to recent sedimentary deposits.

Uses & applications

Used locally as building or landscaping stone and occasionally as a decorative specimen; generally has little gemstone value.

Geological facts

The rusty coloration reflects oxidation of iron minerals such as hematite and goethite. Its irregular cavities and rounded grains may indicate weathering, porous cementation, or conglomeratic texture.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by gritty texture, visible quartz grains, rusty coloration, and lack of crystalline cleavage; a streak test may leave a pale brown to reddish mark. Common in arid, coastal, river, and iron-rich sedimentary environments.