sedimentary
Quartz-veined Siltstone/Greywacke
Clastic Sedimentary Rock with Quartz Infill (SiO2 vein)
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs). Color: Grey-green matrix with a white/translucent vein. Luster: Dull/earthy matrix, vitreous vein. Non-foliated, fine-grained texture.
- Hardness
- 6-7 (Mohs)
- Color
- Grey-green matrix with a white/translucent vein
- Luster
- Dull/earthy matrix, vitreous vein
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs). Color: Grey-green matrix with a white/translucent vein. Luster: Dull/earthy matrix, vitreous vein. Non-foliated, fine-grained texture.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accumulation of fine-grained sediment in marine or fluvial environments. The vein formed later when tectonic stress created a fracture, allowing silica-rich hydrothermal fluids to precipitate quartz.
Uses & applications
Used primarily as decorative river stones, landscaping, or as garden rocks. Clastic rocks are also used in construction aggregate and road base.
Geological facts
The white line is a 'healed' fracture. Geologists use these veins to determine the history of stress and fluid movement within the Earth's crust.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by the distinct color contrast between the host rock and the protruding or distinct linear vein. Commonly found in riverbeds, glacial tills, and coastal beaches.
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