sedimentary

Tumbled banded sandstone pebble

Quartz-rich sandstone (chiefly SiO₂), likely iron-oxide-stained

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Fine-grained, rounded and polished, with tan–cream planar banding and earthy/satin luster. Quartz hardness is about Mohs 7, but sandstone commonly feels softer (roughly 5–7) because grains are cemented; no visible cleavage.

Identified August 9, 2026More sedimentary →

Explore Tumbled banded sandstone pebble 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

Formed from compacted and cemented sand, commonly in river, dune, or shallow-marine environments; the visible bands reflect changing sediment layers or mineral staining. The exact geological age cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Used as a decorative tumbled stone, craft material, and inexpensive collector specimen; sandstone is also widely used as building and paving stone.

Geological facts

The stripes are sedimentary laminae rather than crystal bands. Iron oxides commonly produce the salmon, tan, and reddish coloration.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its granular texture, muted earthy colors, and layered sedimentary banding; a hand lens may reveal individual quartz grains. Common source regions include sandstone-bearing river gravels and desert formations worldwide.