sedimentary

Weathered iron-rich sandstone or mudstone pebble

Clastic sedimentary rock, likely ferruginous sandstone/mudstone (quartz–clay minerals with iron oxides)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Smooth, rounded brown pebble with dull earthy luster and a pale fracture/vein. Estimated hardness 4–6 Mohs; granular or very fine-grained texture, with no visible crystals or cleavage.

Identified September 3, 2026More sedimentary →

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At a glance

Common name: Weathered iron-rich sandstone or mudstone pebble
Scientific name: Clastic sedimentary rock, likely ferruginous sandstone/mudstone (quartz–clay minerals with iron oxides)
Category: sedimentary
Identified: September 3, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Typically $1–$10 as a common pebble; up to about $15–$30 if unusually attractive, polished, or display-worthy.

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

Smooth, rounded brown pebble with dull earthy luster and a pale fracture/vein. Estimated hardness 4–6 Mohs; granular or very fine-grained texture, with no visible crystals or cleavage.

Formation & geological history

Formed from compacted and cemented sand- or mud-sized sediment, later colored by iron-oxide staining; its rounded shape indicates abrasion in a stream, beach, or glacial environment. Exact geological age cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Commonly used as landscaping stone, aggregate, or a curiosity specimen; generally little jewelry value unless unusually patterned or polished.

Geological facts

The rusty brown color typically reflects hematite or limonite cement/staining rather than a distinct red mineral. The pale line may be a quartz/calcite vein, weathering seam, or healed fracture.

Field identification & locations

Look for a gritty texture, layered bedding, earthy streak, and weak reaction or no reaction to dilute acid; a steel nail may scratch softer mudstone but not quartz-rich sandstone. Common worldwide in sedimentary terrains.