sedimentary
Quartz-veined Sandstone
Sedimentary rock with quartz vein (SiO2)
Hardness of 7 for the quartz vein and 6-7 for the host rock, color is brownish-red with a prominent white to off-white quartz band, luster is vitreous on the quartz vein and dull/earthy on the host, crystal structure is trigonal (quartz) and clastic (sandstone), specific gravity around 2.65.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 for the quartz vein and 6-7 for the host rock, color is brownish-red with a prominent white to off-white quartz band, luster is vitreous on the quartz vein and dull/earthy on the host, crystal structure is trigonal (quartz) and clastic (sandstone), specific gravity around 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the lithification of sand-sized mineral particles or rock fragments, later fractured and filled with hydrothermal fluids rich in silica that precipitated to form a quartz vein. Can range in geological age from Precambrian to recent.
Uses & applications
Used in general landscaping, decorative garden stones, aggregate for construction, and as collector specimens.
Geological facts
Quartz veins are formed when hydrothermal fluids move through cracks in existing rocks under high pressure and temperature, depositing dissolved minerals along the fracture planes.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified in the field by the striking contrast of a lighter quartz vein cutting across a darker sedimentary host rock. Found worldwide in stream beds, sedimentary basins, and mountainous regions.
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Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Fossiliferous Concretion
Septarian Concretion containing Brachiopods/Crinoids
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Quartz pebble
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
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Sedimentary Sandstone
Arenite (Sedimentary Rock)
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Generic Pebble / Rock Fragment
Lithic fragment / Weathered rock
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Banded Siltstone / Mudstone Pebble
Siltstone / Argillite
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