sedimentary

Likely shale or mudstone fragment

Fine-grained clastic sedimentary rock, composed mainly of clay minerals and silt-sized quartz; the image is insufficient to distinguish shale from mudstone confidently.

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

The small, dull tan-gray fragment appears fine-grained and irregular, without visible crystals. Typical shale/mudstone hardness is about 2–4 Mohs; crystal structure is not visible to the naked eye.

Identified September 26, 2026More sedimentary →

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At a glance

Common name: Likely shale or mudstone fragment
Scientific name: Fine-grained clastic sedimentary rock, composed mainly of clay minerals and silt-sized quartz; the image is insufficient to distinguish shale from mudstone confidently.
Category: sedimentary
Identified: September 26, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Usually under $1 for an ordinary loose fragment; no meaningful collector value.

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

The small, dull tan-gray fragment appears fine-grained and irregular, without visible crystals. Typical shale/mudstone hardness is about 2–4 Mohs; crystal structure is not visible to the naked eye.

Formation & geological history

Forms as mud and silt settle in quiet-water environments and compact into rock. The fragment’s age and original source cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Commonly used as a raw material for cement and bricks; this small, weathered fragment has little practical or jewelry value.

Geological facts

The specimen is resting on painted, weathered wood, which is not part of the geological sample. The reported location in Inner Mongolia is broadly compatible with sedimentary rocks, but does not identify its source.

Field identification & locations

Check a fresh broken surface: shale tends to split into thin sheets, while mudstone breaks more blockily. Fine grit, layering, and a lack of visible grains support this identification; a photo alone cannot confirm it.