sedimentary

Tumbled reddish sandstone pebble

Quartz-rich sandstone, likely ferruginous arkose or quartz arenite

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Fine-grained, reddish-brown, matte to slightly earthy luster, with pale quartz-rich veins or cement-filled fractures. Hardness is approximately 6–7 for quartz grains, though the aggregate may crumble more easily; no obvious cleavage.

Identified August 11, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from compacted and cemented sand, with iron oxides producing the red color; the white lines are likely mineral-filled fractures, commonly quartz or calcite. The source rock may range from Paleozoic to Mesozoic age, but the specimen’s exact age cannot be determined visually.

Uses & applications

Used mainly as a decorative, educational, or collected stone; sandstone is also important for building stone, paving, and aggregate. This small tumbled piece has little commercial value.

Geological facts

The rounded shape indicates abrasion by water, sediment transport, or tumbling. Red coloration commonly reflects hematite coatings on sand grains or iron-rich cement.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by visible sand-sized grains, earthy red coloration, and layered or fractured texture; a glass-scratch test may show quartz-rich areas scratching glass. Common worldwide, especially in riverbeds and sedimentary basins.