sedimentary
Quartz-veined Siltstone
Siltstone with Quartz (SiO2) veins
Hardness: 6-7 (veins), 4-5 (matrix); Color: Brownish-grey matrix with white/translucent veins; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Structure: Fine-grained sedimentary layering with secondary crystalline infill; Specific Gravity: 2.6-2.7
- Hardness
- 6-7 (veins), 4-5 (matrix)
- Color
- Brownish-grey matrix with white/translucent veins
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
Identified More sedimentary →
Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 (veins), 4-5 (matrix); Color: Brownish-grey matrix with white/translucent veins; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Structure: Fine-grained sedimentary layering with secondary crystalline infill; Specific Gravity: 2.6-2.7
Formation & geological history
Formed through the lithification of silt-sized particles in a low-energy aquatic environment. The prominent white veins formed later when tectonic stress cracked the rock, allowing silica-rich hydrothermal fluids to precipitate quartz within the fractures.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a decorative garden stone or 'river rock.' Larger deposits may be used as fill material or road base in construction.
Geological facts
The 'criss-cross' pattern of veins often creates a 'septarian-like' appearance, though it is the result of structural fracturing (brittle deformation) rather than shrinking cores. These are common in riverbeds where water erosion polishes the surface to reveal the internal vein structure.
Field identification & locations
Identify by looking for fine sedimentary layers interrupted by hard, crystalline white bands that stand out in relief. Commonly found in riverbeds, glacial tills, and coastal outcrops. Collectors look for unique vein geometries.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Shale or Slaty Mudstone
Argillaceous sedimentary rock
sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (primarily SiO2)
sedimentary
Chert Breccia
Brecciated Chert (Microcrystalline Silica)
sedimentary
Sandstone (Quartz-rich)
Arenite (SiO2)
sedimentary
Sandstone (with man-made markings)
Arenite (composed primarily of Quartz, SiO2)
sedimentary