metamorphic

Rounded pinkish stone, likely quartzite or weathered sandstone

Probable quartzite (mostly quartz, SiO₂); sandstone is an alternative

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Pale salmon-pink, fine-grained, dull to slightly sugary luster, rounded and smoothed; likely Mohs hardness 6–7 if quartzite, with no visible cleavage. Specific gravity is approximately 2.6–2.7.

Identified September 5, 2026More metamorphic →

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Physical properties

Pale salmon-pink, fine-grained, dull to slightly sugary luster, rounded and smoothed; likely Mohs hardness 6–7 if quartzite, with no visible cleavage. Specific gravity is approximately 2.6–2.7.

Formation & geological history

If quartzite, it formed when quartz-rich sandstone was recrystallized under heat and pressure, commonly during mountain building; its geological age cannot be determined from the photograph. The smooth shape likely reflects river, beach, or tumbling abrasion.

Uses & applications

Suitable as a hand specimen, landscaping stone, or decorative pebble; quartzite may also be used for aggregate, slabs, and durable construction stone. This individual piece has little commercial value.

Geological facts

The pink color commonly comes from iron oxides coating or staining quartz grains, rather than from a distinct pink mineral. A glass-scratching test can help distinguish quartzite from softer sandstone, though it may damage the specimen.

Field identification & locations

Common in quartz-rich river gravels and eroded metamorphic terrains worldwide. Inspect a broken or fresh surface: interlocking sparkling quartz grains suggest quartzite, while loose visible grains and weaker cohesion suggest sandstone.