metamorphic

Quartz-rich metamorphic rock, likely quartzite

Quartzite; predominantly microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂), with possible iron-oxide staining and minor mica/feldspar

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 7 Mohs; mottled gray, tan, orange, and rusty brown; vitreous to dull luster; interlocking granular texture, massive structure, and no obvious cleavage. The orange coloration likely reflects hematite or limonite.

Identified September 6, 2026More metamorphic →

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At a glance

Common name: Quartz-rich metamorphic rock, likely quartzite
Scientific name: Quartzite; predominantly microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂), with possible iron-oxide staining and minor mica/feldspar
Category: metamorphic
Identified: September 6, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$30 as a common field boulder; roughly $30–$150 if polished, unusually patterned, or sold as a decorative specimen.

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 quartz-rich sandstone was deeply buried and recrystallized under heat and pressure, commonly during Precambrian or Paleozoic mountain-building. Exact age cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Used as crushed stone, aggregate, road material, building stone, and decorative landscape rock; attractive pieces may be polished or collected. This specimen has modest commercial value unless provenance or exceptional patterning is established.

Geological facts

Quartzite commonly preserves original bedding faintly but breaks across grains rather than around them, producing very hard, resistant boulders. Iron staining can create vivid breccia-like orange and red patterns.

Field identification & locations

Likely quartzite if it scratches glass and shows a sugary quartz texture; unlike sandstone, it should not crumble along grains. Common in metamorphic mountain belts and glacial or stream gravels.