sedimentary

Rounded sandstone pebble

Quartz-rich sandstone, commonly arkose or lithic sandstone

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically Mohs hardness 6–7 for quartz grains, tan to brown color, dull earthy luster, granular texture, and no obvious cleavage; rounded edges indicate water or abrasion transport. Exact composition cannot be confirmed from the image alone.

Identified August 25, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Lithified sand cemented by silica, calcite, or iron oxides, then weathered and rounded in a stream, beach, or glacial environment. The depositional age is indeterminate without locality and laboratory study.

Uses & applications

Used as aggregate, landscaping stone, building stone, and occasionally as a hand specimen; generally has negligible jewelry value.

Geological facts

The dark horizontal band may represent bedding, cement variation, or a lithic-rich layer. A dilute acid test, streak, grain examination, and locality information would help distinguish sandstone from weathered limestone or siltstone.

Field identification & locations

Common worldwide in sedimentary basins and river gravels. Look for visible sand-sized grains, gritty texture, sedimentary layering, and fizzing or lack of fizzing with dilute hydrochloric acid.