sedimentary

Small weathered stone, possibly quartz-rich sandstone

Indeterminate siliciclastic rock; likely quartz-bearing sandstone or chert fragment

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Tan-brown, rounded, granular and opaque to slightly translucent, with a dull earthy luster. Hardness is approximately 5–7 Mohs if quartz-rich; cleavage is absent, and grain structure is indistinct at this scale.

Identified September 2, 2026More sedimentary →

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At a glance

Common name: Small weathered stone, possibly quartz-rich sandstone
Scientific name: Indeterminate siliciclastic rock; likely quartz-bearing sandstone or chert fragment
Category: sedimentary
Identified: September 2, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Typically under $1 as an isolated common pebble; attractive polished or demonstrably unusual specimens may sell for $5–$20.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Likely formed from cemented sand or microcrystalline silica, then rounded by erosion and transport; its geological age and exact formation environment cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Common material has little commercial value, though quartz-rich sandstone is used as aggregate, building stone, and occasionally lapidary material.

Geological facts

The mottled brown color may come from iron-oxide staining, while the rounded shape indicates abrasion by water, wind, or sediment movement.

Field identification & locations

Look for visible sand grains, a gritty texture, and scratching ability against glass for sandstone; a smooth waxy texture and conchoidal fracture would favor chert. Common in streambeds, beaches, deserts, and sedimentary outcrops.