sedimentary

Quartz-veined Siltstone

Siltstone with Quartz (SiO2) veins

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

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

Identified July 18, 2026More sedimentary →

Explore Quartz-veined Siltstone in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

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

App Store Google Play

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.