metamorphic
Polished pink-and-white quartzite (likely rose-quartz-bearing quartzite)
Quartzite, predominantly SiO₂ (quartz), with iron-oxide staining and possible feldspar/mica impurities
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness about 7 Mohs; pale pink, white, gray, and reddish-brown coloring; vitreous to sugary luster; massive, tightly interlocking quartz grains with no obvious cleavage and uneven fracture. The polished surface shows granular texture and reflective quartz patches.
Identified More metamorphic →
Explore Polished pink-and-white quartzite (likely rose-quartz-bearing quartzite) in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness about 7 Mohs; pale pink, white, gray, and reddish-brown coloring; vitreous to sugary luster; massive, tightly interlocking quartz grains with no obvious cleavage and uneven fracture. The polished surface shows granular texture and reflective quartz patches.
Formation & geological history
Forms when quartz-rich sandstone is recrystallized under heat and pressure during metamorphism, commonly in Precambrian mountain belts; pink tones typically reflect iron or trace-element impurities. Exact age cannot be determined from the photograph.
Uses & applications
Used as decorative stone, countertops, flooring, wall cladding, aggregate, and landscaping material; attractive pieces are sold as lapidary slabs or display specimens.
Geological facts
Quartzite is generally harder and more resistant to weathering than its sandstone precursor. It can resemble marble, but quartzite scratches glass whereas calcite-rich marble does not.
Field identification & locations
Common in metamorphic terrains worldwide, including Brazil, India, Madagascar, Norway, and the United States. Identify it by its fused quartz grains, lack of strong cleavage, and glass-scratching hardness; acid testing is typically negative or weak.
More like this
