
metamorphic
Rounded blue-gray stone, likely slate or fine-grained metamorphic rock
Probable slate/phyllite; composition mainly quartz, mica, and feldspar
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectFine-grained, dull to subtly silky luster, blue-gray with tan weathering rind, and smoothly water-worn edges. Likely Mohs hardness 5–7; weak-to-moderate foliation may be visible, but crystal structure and cleavage are obscured by the rounded surface.
Identified More metamorphic →
Explore Rounded blue-gray stone, likely slate or fine-grained metamorphic rock in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Fine-grained, dull to subtly silky luster, blue-gray with tan weathering rind, and smoothly water-worn edges. Likely Mohs hardness 5–7; weak-to-moderate foliation may be visible, but crystal structure and cleavage are obscured by the rounded surface.
Formation & geological history
Probably formed by low-grade metamorphism of shale or mudstone, commonly during Paleozoic–Precambrian mountain-building; its rounded shape indicates transport by water or glacial action.
Uses & applications
Suitable as a common decorative or landscaping stone, paperweight, or craft specimen; not identifiable as gem-quality material from the image. Slate may also be used for roofing, paving, and tiles.
Geological facts
The blue-gray color can result from fine mica, chlorite, graphite, or iron-bearing minerals. A fresh broken surface would be much more diagnostic than this weathered, polished-looking exterior.
Field identification & locations
Look for planar splitting, a fine silky sheen, and thin layers to distinguish slate/phyllite from basalt or chert; common in metamorphic terrains and stream gravels. Exact identification requires a fresh surface, streak, hardness, and possibly thin-section or chemical testing.
More like this
Other metamorphic specimens
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Amphibolite
Amphibolite
metamorphic
Rhodonite
Manganese Silicate (Mn, Fe, Mg, Ca)SiO3
mineral
Rhodonite
(Mn,Fe,Mg,Ca)SiO3
mineral
Greenschist
Greenschist (containing Chlorite, Actinolite, and Epidote)
metamorphic
Garnet
Garnet group: X3Y2(SiO4)3 (commonly Almandine-Pyrope series)
mineral