sedimentary

Tumbled sandstone or iron-stained quartzite pebble

Quartz-rich sandstone (SiO₂), possibly weakly metamorphosed quartzite

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Rounded, matte to faintly earthy luster; tan-orange coloration likely comes from iron oxides. Predominantly quartz, with fine cement or recrystallized quartz; hardness about 6–7 Mohs, no obvious cleavage, and moderate-to-high specific gravity around 2.6.…

Identified August 19, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Likely a naturally water-rounded pebble or commercially tumbled stone, formed from quartz-rich sediment later cemented and possibly metamorphosed. Its depositional age cannot be determined from the photograph; such rocks occur in many geological eras and river or beach environments.

Uses & applications

Used as landscaping stone, craft material, aquarium décor, and inexpensive lapidary specimens; generally little jewelry value unless polished or unusually patterned.

Geological facts

The orange-brown color is commonly produced by hematite or limonite coatings between quartz grains. Smooth oval shape indicates prolonged abrasion or deliberate tumbling.

Field identification & locations

Look for visible sand grains and gritty texture for sandstone; a sugary, interlocking quartz texture and glassier fracture suggest quartzite. Common in river gravels, beaches, and sedimentary terrains worldwide.