sedimentary

Tumbled banded sandstone pebble

Quartz-rich sandstone (lithified siliciclastic sediment)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically Mohs 6–7 because of quartz grains; tan-brown, fine-grained, matte to subtly silky luster, with darker parallel bedding or iron-oxide bands. No visible cleavage; granular clastic texture and moderate density (~2.2–2.7 g/cm³).

Identified August 22, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed when sand accumulated, was compacted, and cemented by silica, iron oxides, or carbonate; the bands represent changing sediment conditions or mineral staining. The exact geological age cannot be determined from the image; sandstone ranges from Precambrian to modern formations.

Uses & applications

Used as a decorative tumbled stone, landscaping material, aggregate, and occasionally building stone; generally not a jewelry gemstone.

Geological facts

The rounded shape is produced by tumbling or natural abrasion, while the dark stripes likely preserve bedding or groundwater-related iron/manganese staining.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by visible sand-sized quartz grains, earthy tan color, sedimentary banding, and lack of crystal faces or cleavage; common worldwide in sandstone outcrops and river gravels.