metamorphic

Quartz-bearing greenstone (probable epidote–quartz rock)

Epidote–quartz schist/greenstone; chiefly quartz (SiO₂) and epidote [Ca₂(Al,Fe)₃(SiO₄)₃(OH)], with possible chlorite and feldspar

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 6–7 (quartz; epidote 6–7), gray-green color with white translucent quartz veins and yellow-green epidote, generally vitreous to dull luster, fine-to-medium granular texture, and no obvious cleavage in the specimen.

Identified August 16, 2026More metamorphic →

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At a glance

Common name: Quartz-bearing greenstone (probable epidote–quartz rock)
Scientific name: Epidote–quartz schist/greenstone; chiefly quartz (SiO₂) and epidote [Ca₂(Al,Fe)₃(SiO₄)₃(OH)], with possible chlorite and feldspar
Category: metamorphic
Identified: August 16, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Typically $5–$25 for a hand specimen; attractive polished or crystal-rich pieces may sell for $30–$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 basaltic or volcanic protoliths underwent low- to medium-grade metamorphism, commonly during hydrothermal alteration; ages vary widely by locality, often Precambrian to Paleozoic.

Uses & applications

Used mainly as a decorative stone, lapidary rough, and teaching or collecting specimen; it has limited construction value unless present as a durable aggregate.

Geological facts

The green color commonly reflects epidote and chlorite, while the white areas are quartz. Epidote-rich rocks may be weakly attracted to a magnet if iron-bearing minerals are abundant.

Field identification & locations

Look for a hard, compact green matrix enclosing glassy white quartz and yellow-green granular epidote; a steel nail usually will not scratch quartz. Common in metamorphic belts and altered volcanic terrains worldwide, including the Alps, Pacific Northwest, and Appalachians.