sedimentary

Likely weathered sandstone fragment

Sandstone, composed mainly of quartz (SiO₂) and feldspar grains in a clay, silica, or iron-oxide cement

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Tan-brown, dull to earthy luster, visibly granular and weakly layered; quartz-rich sandstone has Mohs hardness around 6–7, but the cement may make the specimen friable. No clear crystals or cleavage are visible.

Identified September 16, 2026More sedimentary →

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At a glance

Common name: Likely weathered sandstone fragment
Scientific name: Sandstone, composed mainly of quartz (SiO₂) and feldspar grains in a clay, silica, or iron-oxide cement
Category: sedimentary
Identified: September 16, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Usually $1–$10 for an ordinary fragment; notable fossiliferous, patterned, or provenance-rich specimens may sell for $20–$100+.

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

Formed when sand accumulated, compacted, and cemented in rivers, deserts, beaches, or shallow seas; its exact geological age cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Used as building stone, paving, wall cladding, aggregate, and occasionally as a decorative stone; this small fragment has little commercial value.

Geological facts

The brown color commonly reflects iron-oxide staining. Sandstone can preserve ripple marks, cross-bedding, fossils, or ancient environmental clues.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by gritty texture, visible sand grains, sedimentary layering, and scratching glass if quartz-rich; distinguish it from mudstone, which feels smoother, and granite, which has interlocking visible crystals. Common worldwide, especially in sedimentary basins.