sedimentary

Iron-rich sandstone or ferruginous quartzite

Hematite/goethite-bearing quartz sandstone; possibly weakly metamorphosed to quartzite

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Coarse, reddish-brown granular surface with scattered reflective quartz grains and iron-oxide staining; likely Mohs 6–7, earthy to subvitreous luster, and no obvious cleavage. The dark red color is characteristic of hematite or goethite cement.

Identified August 11, 2026More sedimentary →

Explore Iron-rich sandstone or ferruginous quartzite in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed when quartz-rich sand was compacted and cemented by iron oxides, likely during ancient continental or desert sedimentation; exact geological age cannot be determined from the photograph. If strongly recrystallized, it may instead be ferruginous quartzite.

Uses & applications

Used locally as building or landscaping stone, aggregate, and occasionally as a decorative specimen; generally not suitable for jewelry unless polished. Iron-rich varieties may have minor ore significance.

Geological facts

Iron oxides commonly produce red, orange, and brown coloration in sandstone. The apparent glitter is probably quartz grains or mica rather than metallic iron.

Field identification & locations

Look for visible sand-sized grains, rusty red cement, high scratch resistance, and no reaction to dilute acid; a streak test may leave a reddish-brown mark. Common in iron-rich sedimentary terrains worldwide, including western and central Australia, India, Africa, and the western United States.