mineral

Tumbled honey-colored chalcedony or quartzite

Microcrystalline quartz, SiO₂; exact identification requires testing

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Opaque to translucent golden-brown, waxy to dull luster, irregular conchoidal-looking fracture, and no visible cleavage; quartz hardness is about 7 Mohs, while iron-rich chalcedony or weathered material may be slightly softer. The rounded shape indicates natural abrasion or tumbling.

Identified August 11, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Likely formed from silica-rich fluids filling cavities or replacing host rock, with iron oxides producing the brown-yellow color; such material commonly formed in volcanic or sedimentary environments over millions of years. The specimen’s age and locality cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Used as a lapidary, carving, cabochon, and decorative stone; similar material is also used in aggregate and ornamental construction. This small, ordinary piece has modest commercial value.

Geological facts

Color may result from hematite or limonite inclusions. Chalcedony and quartzite can look similar; a hardness, streak, translucency, and specific-gravity test would help distinguish them.

Field identification & locations

Commonly found in volcanic cavities, gravel deposits, and weathered silica-rich rocks worldwide, especially Brazil, Uruguay, India, Madagascar, and the western United States. Estimated value: $1–$10 for a small common tumbled specimen, or $10–$30 if unusually attractive or locality-specific.