metamorphic
Quartzite Arrowhead
Quartzite (SiO2 silicon dioxide)
Hardness: 7 Mohs; Color: Tan, beige, or pale pink; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Texture: Granular, sugary appearance; Structure: Microcrystalline, showing conchoidal fracture patterns from knapping.
- Hardness
- 7 Mohs
- Color
- Tan, beige, or pale pink
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 Mohs; Color: Tan, beige, or pale pink; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Texture: Granular, sugary appearance; Structure: Microcrystalline, showing conchoidal fracture patterns from knapping.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the metamorphism of quartz-rich sandstone under heat and pressure. It was subsequentally hand-toasted (knapped) by humans into a projectile point or scraper tool.
Uses & applications
Historically used as a projectile point or scraping tool; currently valued as an archaeological or lithic artifact and collector's item.
Geological facts
Quartzite is one of the hardest and most durable rocks available to ancient toolmakers. It is resistant to chemical weathering and creates very sharp, though slightly jagged, edges when flaked.
Field identification & locations
Identify by looking for 'bulb of percussion' or flake scars on a rock that is clearly too hard to be marble. Found widely across North America and other continents in areas with metamorphic bedrock.
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