sedimentary

Quartz-rich sandstone (possibly arkosic sandstone)

Clastic sandstone composed mainly of quartz (SiO₂), with feldspar and mica fragments cemented by silica or carbonate

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically Mohs 6–7; pale tan to gray, granular, and vitreous to dull. Visible sand-sized grains and uneven porous texture are characteristic; individual grains may sparkle from quartz or mica.

Identified August 17, 2026More sedimentary →

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At a glance

Common name: Quartz-rich sandstone (possibly arkosic sandstone)
Scientific name: Clastic sandstone composed mainly of quartz (SiO₂), with feldspar and mica fragments cemented by silica or carbonate
Category: sedimentary
Identified: August 17, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$25 for a common hand specimen; up to roughly $30–$75 if unusually attractive, labeled, or from a notable locality.

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

Typically Mohs 6–7; pale tan to gray, granular, and vitreous to dull. Visible sand-sized grains and uneven porous texture are characteristic; individual grains may sparkle from quartz or mica.

Formation & geological history

Formed when sand accumulated, compacted, and cemented in a river, beach, dune, or shallow-marine environment. Its exact geological age cannot be determined from the photograph; sandstone ranges from Precambrian to recent.

Uses & applications

Used as building stone, paving, aggregate, and decorative material; attractive pieces are collected as specimens. It has little jewelry value unless unusually colorful or cemented with gem minerals.

Geological facts

The specimen appears unusually coarse and porous, possibly a weathered or weakly cemented sandstone, rather than a crystalline igneous rock. A hand lens can reveal rounded versus angular grains and distinguish quartz from flaky mica.

Field identification & locations

Common worldwide, especially in sedimentary basins and former beaches or river systems. Confirm identification by checking for gritty grains, lack of interlocking crystals, and possible fizz with dilute hydrochloric acid if carbonate cement is suspected.