sedimentary

Weathered iron-rich sandstone or ferruginous pebble

Quartz-rich sandstone with iron-oxide cement; exact identification requires testing

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Brown to ochre, dull-to-earthy luster, fine granular texture, rounded water-worn form, and small pits or cavities. Likely hardness about 6–7 where quartz-rich, with no obvious cleavage; iron oxides cause the rusty coloration and density is commonly ~2.3–2.7 g/cm³.

Identified September 10, 2026More sedimentary →

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At a glance

Common name: Weathered iron-rich sandstone or ferruginous pebble
Scientific name: Quartz-rich sandstone with iron-oxide cement; exact identification requires testing
Category: sedimentary
Identified: September 10, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Typically $0–$10 as a common found pebble; up to roughly $10–$30 if unusually aesthetic, polished, or locally significant.

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

Probably a sedimentary clast cemented by silica and iron oxides, then rounded by river, beach, or glacial transport and weathered at the surface. Its precise geological age cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Primarily a natural specimen or landscaping stone; ordinary material has negligible industrial or jewelry use. Cut or polished pieces may be used decoratively if the texture is attractive.

Geological facts

The surface appears coated or stained by limonite/goethite, common weathering products of iron-bearing minerals. The holes may reflect weathering of softer grains, small gas-like cavities, or biological/impact-related pitting rather than true vesicles.

Field identification & locations

Look for gritty grains, a possible quartz-rich composition, rusty streaks, and lack of glassy conchoidal fracture; a steel file should scratch it only with difficulty. Common in stream gravels, beaches, weathered outcrops, and glacial deposits worldwide.