sedimentary

Tumbled quartz-rich pebble, possibly chert or jasper

Microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂), likely chert/jasper; exact identification requires testing

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Brown-red, rounded, fine-grained, and dull to faintly waxy with small whitish patches; quartz hardness is about 7 Mohs, with no visible cleavage and a conchoidal fracture. Specific gravity is typically 2.6–2.7.

Identified August 16, 2026More sedimentary →

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At a glance

Common name: Tumbled quartz-rich pebble, possibly chert or jasper
Scientific name: Microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂), likely chert/jasper; exact identification requires testing
Category: sedimentary
Identified: August 16, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Typically $1–$5 as a small common tumbled pebble; attractive patterned or translucent jasper/chert 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 a naturally water-worn or human-tumbled silica-rich pebble formed from sedimentary microcrystalline quartz; age cannot be determined from the photograph. Chert and jasper form when silica precipitates or replaces sediment.

Uses & applications

Common pieces are used as lapidary material, beads, cabochons, and decorative tumbled stones; low-grade specimens have little industrial value compared with bulk silica.

Geological facts

The reddish-brown color commonly comes from iron oxides or hydroxides. A glass-scratch test can help confirm quartz, though it may damage the specimen.

Field identification & locations

Common in stream gravels and sedimentary regions worldwide; inspect for translucency, conchoidal fracture, and hardness, and distinguish it from softer iron-rich claystone by testing whether it scratches glass.