metamorphic

Quartz-bearing metamorphic rock, likely quartzite with dark mica/amphibole

Quartzite or quartz-rich schist; chiefly SiO₂ quartz with biotite, hornblende/amphibole, and iron-oxide staining

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

White, translucent quartz forms a coarse crystalline vein or mass within a dark, foliated matrix; vitreous luster, no visible cleavage in quartz, and likely Mohs hardness 6.5–7. Dark minerals may show weak foliation and cleavage. Exact identification is limited by the photograph.

Identified September 5, 2026More metamorphic →

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At a glance

Common name: Quartz-bearing metamorphic rock, likely quartzite with dark mica/amphibole
Scientific name: Quartzite or quartz-rich schist; chiefly SiO₂ quartz with biotite, hornblende/amphibole, and iron-oxide staining
Category: metamorphic
Identified: September 5, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$25 as an ordinary specimen; potentially $30–$100 if unusually attractive, locality-labeled, or containing collectible minerals.

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

Likely metamorphosed sandstone or quartz-rich protolith intruded or segregated into quartz veins, then fractured and stained by oxidized iron-bearing fluids. Age depends on locality and cannot be determined visually.

Uses & applications

Used decoratively as ornamental stone and collected as a hand specimen; quartz-rich rock may be crushed for aggregate, but this irregular piece has little commercial value.

Geological facts

Quartz veins commonly appear white because of recrystallization and fluid deposition; rusty red-brown patches are typically hematite or limonite weathering products.

Field identification & locations

Test the white material with a steel file or glass: quartz should scratch glass and resist a steel knife. Look for foliation, mica flakes, and a sugary quartz texture; common in metamorphic belts worldwide.