sedimentary

Quartz-rich sandstone (possibly quartzite)

Quartz arenite; if recrystallized, quartzite, composed predominantly of SiO₂

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Tan, coarse-grained, dull to slightly sparkly, with a granular texture and no obvious cleavage. Quartz has Mohs hardness 7; the image alone cannot establish whether the grains are cemented sandstone or interlocking quartzite.

Identified October 1, 2026More sedimentary →

Explore Quartz-rich sandstone (possibly quartzite) in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

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

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Quartz-rich sand lithified by burial and cementation forms sandstone; heat and pressure can recrystallize it into quartzite. The specimen’s age and exact formation environment cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Quartz sandstone is used as building or paving stone and as an industrial silica source when sufficiently pure; quartzite is used for construction aggregate, dimension stone, and decorative surfaces.

Geological facts

Quartz grains commonly survive weathering and transport, so quartz-rich rocks are widespread. A key distinction is whether visible grains and boundaries remain (sandstone) or have fused into an interlocking mosaic (quartzite).

Field identification & locations

Look for gritty, discrete sand grains and whether the rock scratches glass; both support a quartz-rich composition, but a fresh fracture or hand lens is needed to distinguish sandstone from quartzite. Common worldwide in sedimentary basins and metamorphic belts.