sedimentary

Quartz-rich sandstone or granite-derived gravel fragment

Likely quartz (SiO₂) grains cemented in sandstone; exact identification is uncertain from the image

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Small pale gray-white, granular, dull-to-slightly glassy fragment with no visible crystals or cleavage; quartz hardness ~7, sandstone typically ~6–7, with moderate density (~2.6 g/cm³).

Identified August 30, 2026More sedimentary →

Explore Quartz-rich sandstone or granite-derived gravel fragment in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

At a glance

Common name: Quartz-rich sandstone or granite-derived gravel fragment
Scientific name: Likely quartz (SiO₂) grains cemented in sandstone; exact identification is uncertain from the image
Category: sedimentary
Identified: August 30, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Less than $1 as an isolated fragment; typically sold only as part of bulk aggregate or teaching samples.

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

Small pale gray-white, granular, dull-to-slightly glassy fragment with no visible crystals or cleavage; quartz hardness ~7, sandstone typically ~6–7, with moderate density (~2.6 g/cm³).

Formation & geological history

Probably a naturally weathered piece of quartzose sandstone or crushed siliceous aggregate, formed from lithified sand and later eroded; its geological age cannot be determined visually.

Uses & applications

Quartz-rich sandstone is used as building stone, paving and aggregate; this small fragment has negligible commercial or collector value.

Geological facts

The specimen appears porous and grainy rather than like a single quartz crystal. The surrounding sediment also contains abundant pale gravel, suggesting construction fill, a beach, or an alluvial deposit.

Field identification & locations

Look for sand-sized interlocking grains, weak layering, and a gritty fracture; a glassy conchoidal fracture and strong scratch resistance would favor quartz instead. Common in deserts, beaches, river deposits, and quarry fill.