sedimentary
Quartz-veined Siltstone
Siltstone with Quartz (SiO2) veins
Hardness: 6-7 (veins) / 3-5 (matrix). Color: Dark grey matrix with white/cream veins. Luster: Dull/earthy matrix, vitreous veins. Texture: Fine-grained. Cleavage: None.
- Hardness
- 6-7 (veins) / 3-5 (matrix)
- Color
- Dark grey matrix with white/cream veins
- Luster
- Dull/earthy matrix, vitreous veins
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 (veins) / 3-5 (matrix). Color: Dark grey matrix with white/cream veins. Luster: Dull/earthy matrix, vitreous veins. Texture: Fine-grained. Cleavage: None.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the lithification of silt-sized particles. The white veins are hydrothermally deposited quartz that filled cracks or fractures in the host rock during tectonic stress or volcanic activity.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as base material in construction (crushed stone). Small specimens like this are common educational tools or garden decorations.
Geological facts
The veins act as a geological record of pressure and fluid movement within the Earth's crust. If found in large quantities, these rocks can help geologists map ancient fault lines.
Field identification & locations
Identify by looking for white, crystalline lines cutting across a darker, fine-grained host rock. Commonly found in riverbeds, glacial tills, and mountainous sedimentary basins.
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