metamorphic

Likely yellow jasper or iron-stained quartzite pebble

Jasper: microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂), commonly colored by iron oxides; quartzite: recrystallized quartz (SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

About 35 g, pale yellow, opaque, smoothly rounded and likely naturally water-worn. Expected hardness ~6.5–7 Mohs, dull to slightly waxy luster, no visible cleavage, and high durability; the photograph alone cannot distinguish jasper from quartzite or a common iron-stained stone.

Identified September 19, 2026More metamorphic →

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At a glance

Common name: Likely yellow jasper or iron-stained quartzite pebble
Scientific name: Jasper: microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂), commonly colored by iron oxides; quartzite: recrystallized quartz (SiO₂)
Category: metamorphic
Identified: September 19, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Typically $0–$5 as an unverified pebble; approximately $5–$20 if attractive, confirmed, and polished.

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

Could form as silica-rich sediment transformed into quartzite or as chalcedonic silica colored by goethite/limonite; geological age is indeterminate from the image. Finding it on the ground supports a transported, weathered pebble.

Uses & applications

Usually a low-value lapidary and decorative material, suitable for tumbling, cabochons, crafts, and specimen collecting; not generally used as construction stone at this size.

Geological facts

Pale yellow coloration commonly results from hydrated iron oxides rather than a distinct yellow mineral. A steel knife should generally not scratch it, while quartz will scratch glass.

Field identification & locations

Common in stream gravels, soils, and areas with quartz-rich or iron-bearing rocks. Check for a glassy fracture, translucent edges, granular texture, and streak; a scratch test and specific-gravity test would improve identification.