sedimentary

Rounded sandstone pebble

Quartz-rich sandstone (likely arkose or litharenite)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Tan, fine- to medium-grained, dull earthy luster, with visible sand-sized grains and possible iron-oxide staining; hardness about 6–7 for quartz grains, but the rock is weakly cemented. No obvious crystal faces or cleavage; rounded by abrasion.

Identified September 20, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Lithified sand cemented by silica, calcite, or iron oxides, then weathered and transported in a stream, beach, or glacial environment. Its exact geological age cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Common sandstone is used for building stone, paving, aggregate, and occasionally sculpture; this small pebble has mainly educational or modest collecting value.

Geological facts

The smooth, compact shape indicates substantial transport or wave abrasion. Subtle darker grains may represent lithic fragments or heavy minerals.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by gritty texture, sand-sized grains, and lack of interlocking crystals; a streak, hand lens, and dilute acid test can help distinguish quartz-rich sandstone from limestone. Sandstone occurs worldwide, especially in river gravels, beaches, deserts, and sedimentary basins.