metamorphic

Iron-stained quartz-rich rock, possibly quartzite

Quartz-rich rock dominated by silicon dioxide (SiO₂), with red iron-oxide staining; exact rock type is uncertain from the image

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Opaque, rough, white to salmon-red, with a dull to slightly vitreous luster and no obvious cleavage. Quartz has Mohs hardness 7 and hexagonal crystal structure; the specimen’s grain size and specific gravity cannot be determined from the photo.

Identified October 13, 2026More metamorphic →

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At a glance

Common name: Iron-stained quartz-rich rock, possibly quartzite
Scientific name: Quartz-rich rock dominated by silicon dioxide (SiO₂), with red iron-oxide staining; exact rock type is uncertain from the image
Category: metamorphic
Identified: October 13, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $1–$10 as an ordinary loose specimen; higher value would require distinctive quality, provenance, or workmanship.

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 from quartz-rich material and colored by iron oxides; if quartzite, it formed through metamorphism of sandstone. Its geological age and precise formation environment cannot be established visually.

Uses & applications

Quartzite is used as aggregate, construction stone, and sometimes decorative stone; this rough fragment has little apparent jewelry value.

Geological facts

Red and orange tones commonly result from hematite or other iron-oxide coatings or inclusions.

Field identification & locations

Look for abundant hard quartz grains and test whether it scratches glass; quartzite typically resists scratching and does not fizz in dilute acid. Similar material occurs widely in regions with quartz-rich sandstone or metamorphic rocks.