sedimentary

Quartz Veined Siltstone

Siltstone with Quartz (SiO2) intrusion

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 6.5-7 (vein), 4-6 (host), Color: Grey with white/pinkish band, Luster: Dull (host) to vitreous (vein), Structure: Fine-grained clastic matrix with crystalline vein

Hardness: 6

Identified July 10, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6.5-7 (vein), 4-6 (host), Color: Grey with white/pinkish band, Luster: Dull (host) to vitreous (vein), Structure: Fine-grained clastic matrix with crystalline vein

Formation & geological history

Formed from consolidated silt-sized particles in aqueous environments, later fractured by tectonic activity allowing silica-rich hydrothermal fluids to crystallize into quartz veins. Located in southeast Ireland, common in Bray Group or Ordovician strata.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as aggregate, beach pebble collecting, and for garden landscaping. Quartz veins are often searched for by prospectors as indicators of mineralization.

Geological facts

The coordinate 52.6N, 6.2W puts this near Gorey/Courtown, Ireland. This area is famous for 'Banded Rocks' and Silurian/Ordovician sedimentary rocks shaped by the Caledonian orogen.

Field identification & locations

Identified by the distinct white band (vein) cutting across a darker, fine-grained sedimentary rock. Common on Irish East Coast beaches like Courtown or Brittas Bay.