sedimentary
River Stone (Sandstone with Oxide Banding)
Arenite with Iron/Manganese Oxide inclusions
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Tan/brown with black/dark brown stripes; Luster: Dull to earthy (satiny when wet); Structure: Clastic; Cleavage: None.
- Hardness
- 6-7 (Mohs scale)
- Color
- Tan/brown with black/dark brown stripes
- Luster
- Dull to earthy (satiny when wet)
Identified More sedimentary →
Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Tan/brown with black/dark brown stripes; Luster: Dull to earthy (satiny when wet); Structure: Clastic; Cleavage: None.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the accumulation of sand-sized minerals and rock grains. The dark bands are caused by the infiltration of iron or manganese-rich water into the porous rock over geological time. These specimens are shaped into smooth 'river rocks' by fluvial erosion.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in landscaping, decorative aquariums, architectural veneers, and as polished worry stones for collectors.
Geological facts
The dark stripes often resemble landscape paintings or characters, leading some cultures to consider specific patterns auspicious. This particular stone has a pattern that coincidentally resembles a face.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its gritty texture and distinct layering or banding. Common in riverbeds and coastal regions. Field identification focuses on the presence of sand grains and the durability of the banding against scratching.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (primarily SiO2)
sedimentary
Chert Breccia
Brecciated Chert (Microcrystalline Silica)
sedimentary
Sandstone Grain
Clastic Sedimentary Rock Grain (SiO2 dominated)
sedimentary
Shale or Slaty Mudstone
Argillaceous sedimentary rock
sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite
sedimentary