metamorphic
Tumbled yellow-orange quartzite or jasper
Quartzite, chiefly microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂), possibly iron-oxide-stained jasper
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; opaque mustard-yellow to orange with mottled cream areas, waxy to dull luster, very fine-grained texture, and no obvious cleavage. The rounded shape indicates tumbling or water abrasion.
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Physical properties
Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; opaque mustard-yellow to orange with mottled cream areas, waxy to dull luster, very fine-grained texture, and no obvious cleavage. The rounded shape indicates tumbling or water abrasion.
Formation & geological history
Quartzite forms when quartz-rich sandstone is recrystallized under heat and pressure; yellow-orange coloration commonly comes from hematite or limonite. Its exact geological age cannot be determined from the photograph.
Uses & applications
Used as a decorative stone, lapidary material, landscaping pebble, and inexpensive cabochon or tumbled stone. It is generally not valuable as a gemstone unless unusually attractive or patterned.
Geological facts
The specimen could also be jasper, a dense opaque variety of microcrystalline quartz; distinguishing quartzite from jasper usually requires examining texture or a fresh broken surface.
Field identification & locations
Commonly found in river gravels, glacial deposits, and quartz-rich metamorphic terrains worldwide. A scratch test against glass—if it scratches glass—supports quartz-rich composition; avoid testing valuable pieces.
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