sedimentary

Sandstone Pebble (Quartzite-rich)

Clastic Terrigenous Sedimentary Rock (SiO2 dominant)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Tan to yellowish-brown; Luster: Dull to earthy; Crystal structure: Granular/clastic; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.6-2.7

Hardness: 6-7 Mohs
Color: Tan to yellowish-brown
Luster: Dull to earthy

Identified March 29, 2026More sedimentary →

Explore Sandstone Pebble (Quartzite-rich) in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

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

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Tan to yellowish-brown; Luster: Dull to earthy; Crystal structure: Granular/clastic; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.6-2.7

Formation & geological history

Formed from the lithification of sand-sized grains, primarily quartz. This specific specimen has been significantly rounded and smoothed by fluvial (river) or coastal erosion processes. Geological age can range from millions to hundreds of millions of years depending on the parent formation.

Uses & applications

Common river stones are used in landscaping, decorative ground cover, and as aggregate for construction. High-purity sandstone is used in glassmaking and hydraulic fracturing.

Geological facts

Sandstone makes up about 20-25% of all sedimentary rocks on Earth. The smooth, rounded shape of this specimen indicates it has spent a long period being tumbled in a high-energy water environment, such as a riverbed or shoreline.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its sandpaper-like gritty texture and the presence of visible sand grains. This specimen shows 'well-sorted' grains indicating long-distance transport. Found globally in river valleys and beaches.