metamorphic

River-worn Quartzite / Soapstone

Metamorphic Rock (Quartzite/Talc-schist)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 1-7 depending on exact composition (6-7 for quartzite, 1-2 for soapstone/talc); Color: Pale greyish-green to off-white; Luster: Dull to waxy/greasy; Texture: Fine-grained, stream-rounded pebble; Cleavage: Poor or absent in massive varieties.

Color: Pale greyish-green to off-white
Luster: Dull to waxy/greasy

Identified July 24, 2026More metamorphic →

Explore River-worn Quartzite / Soapstone in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

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

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed under elevated temperatures and pressure through regional or contact metamorphism of quartz-rich sandstone or ultramafic igneous rocks, subsequently eroded and rounded by river or stream action.

Uses & applications

Commonly used for landscaping, decorative pebbles, carving (if soft soapstone variety), construction aggregate, or lapidary tumbling.

Geological facts

Stream-rounded river rocks acquire their smooth, bulbous shape over thousands of years as water currents roll them along riverbeds, wearing away sharp edges.

Field identification & locations

Identified in the field by its smooth, water-worn outer surface and light grey-green color. A simple scratch test with a steel key or pocket knife will determine if it is hard quartzite (won't scratch) or soft soapstone/steatite (scratches easily).