metamorphic
Pink quartzite pebble
Quartzite; predominantly microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness about 7 Mohs; pale salmon-pink, fine-grained, dull to slightly vitreous luster, with no obvious cleavage and irregular fracture. The pictured piece appears water-worn and may contain minor iron-oxide staining or feldspar.
Identified More metamorphic →
Explore Pink quartzite pebble in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness about 7 Mohs; pale salmon-pink, fine-grained, dull to slightly vitreous luster, with no obvious cleavage and irregular fracture. The pictured piece appears water-worn and may contain minor iron-oxide staining or feldspar.
Formation & geological history
Forms when quartz-rich sandstone is recrystallized under heat and pressure during metamorphism; its exact age cannot be determined from the image. Commonly exposed in metamorphic mountain belts and later concentrated in river or beach gravels.
Uses & applications
Used as crushed stone, aggregate, paving, building stone, and decorative landscaping material; attractive pieces are collected but are generally low-value.
Geological facts
Quartzite is typically harder and more resistant to weathering than its sandstone precursor. Pink coloration commonly reflects iron-bearing impurities or minor feldspar rather than a separate gemstone mineral.
Field identification & locations
Identify it by its hardness, sugary fused texture, and resistance to scratching; it should scratch ordinary glass, unlike sandstone. Common in glacial deposits, streams, beaches, and regions such as the Appalachians, Rocky Mountains, and Precambrian shields.
More like this
