Rock Identifier
Likely weathered quartz-bearing rock fragment (Indeterminate; appears to contain quartz (SiO₂) with iron-oxide staining, possibly from quartzite, granite, or pegmatite) — mineral
mineral

Likely weathered quartz-bearing rock fragment

Indeterminate; appears to contain quartz (SiO₂) with iron-oxide staining, possibly from quartzite, granite, or pegmatite

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Small angular specimen with translucent to whitish-gray and rusty-brown areas, vitreous-to-dull luster, and irregular fracture. Quartz has Mohs hardness 7, no cleavage, and specific gravity about 2.65; the exact rock cannot be determined reliably from this image.

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Physical properties

Small angular specimen with translucent to whitish-gray and rusty-brown areas, vitreous-to-dull luster, and irregular fracture. Quartz has Mohs hardness 7, no cleavage, and specific gravity about 2.65; the exact rock cannot be determined reliably from this image.

Formation & geological history

Likely a naturally weathered fragment eroded from a quartz-rich igneous or metamorphic outcrop and transported in stream gravel; its geological age is unknown.

Uses & applications

Unlikely to have industrial or jewelry value at this size; quartz-rich material is used in glass, ceramics, electronics, and aggregate when present in bulk.

Geological facts

Brown coloration commonly results from oxidation of iron-bearing minerals, producing hematite or goethite coatings. The specimen may show several minerals rather than being a single crystal.

Field identification & locations

Test whether it scratches glass but not a steel blade, and inspect a fresh break for glassy quartz; acid testing and a magnifier may reveal carbonate or mica. Quartz-rich stream gravels are widespread worldwide.