sedimentary

Weathered iron-rich chert or ferruginous quartzite

Microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂), stained/coated by iron oxides such as goethite and hematite

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; orange-brown, opaque, earthy to slightly waxy luster, and massive with no obvious cleavage. The rounded surface and possible subtle translucence suggest silica-rich material, though the photograph cannot confirm texture or density.

Identified August 28, 2026More sedimentary →

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At a glance

Common name: Weathered iron-rich chert or ferruginous quartzite
Scientific name: Microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂), stained/coated by iron oxides such as goethite and hematite
Category: sedimentary
Identified: August 28, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $1–$10 as a common rough specimen; $10–$30 if unusually attractive, polished, or confirmed as fine jasper.

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 silica-rich rock strongly weathered and stained by tropical iron oxides; it may be chert, jasper, or ferruginous quartzite. Such weathering can occur over millions of years in humid tropical soils, including the Colombian Andes near 6.1°N, 75.4°W.

Uses & applications

Typically collected as a field specimen, lapidary rough, or occasionally polished cabochon. Iron-rich chert/jasper is also used decoratively, but this small specimen has little commercial value.

Geological facts

The orange color is most likely goethite/hematite staining rather than the primary mineral color. A fresh broken edge would help distinguish chert from quartzite or ironstone.

Field identification & locations

Commonly found as resistant rounded fragments in stream beds, gravel, and deeply weathered soil. Scratch testing with a steel file or glass, examination of a fresh fracture, and checking for sugary quartz grains would improve identification; avoid relying on color alone.