sedimentary

Small weathered rock fragment (likely sandstone)

Quartz-rich sandstone; exact identification is uncertain from the image

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Tan-brown, dull and irregular, with a visibly granular surface; sandstone is typically dominated by quartz (Mohs 7), with grains cemented by silica, calcite, or iron oxides. Grain size and cleavage cannot be determined reliably from this view.

Identified October 12, 2026More sedimentary →

Explore Small weathered rock fragment (likely sandstone) in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

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

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Likely formed as sand deposited and compacted in a sedimentary environment, then cemented; its age and specific depositional setting cannot be inferred from the photograph.

Uses & applications

A fragment this small has little industrial use; sandstone is widely used as building stone, paving, and aggregate, and attractive pieces may be collected.

Geological facts

Iron-oxide staining commonly gives sandstone tan, yellow, or brown tones; a hand lens can reveal its sand-sized grains.

Field identification & locations

Check for distinct gritty grains and whether the surface scratches glass; sandstone commonly occurs in sedimentary layers worldwide. A photo alone cannot confirm the rock type.