sedimentary

Weathered iron-rich sandstone or ferruginous quartzite pebble

Ferruginous sandstone, primarily quartz (SiO₂) with iron oxides/hydroxides

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 5.5–7 Mohs; reddish-brown, fine-grained, dull to weakly earthy luster, rounded and strongly weathered. The porous, granular texture suggests sandstone rather than a crystalline quartzite; no visible cleavage.

Identified August 16, 2026More sedimentary →

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At a glance

Common name: Weathered iron-rich sandstone or ferruginous quartzite pebble
Scientific name: Ferruginous sandstone, primarily quartz (SiO₂) with iron oxides/hydroxides
Category: sedimentary
Identified: August 16, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Typically $1–$10 as a common pebble; up to about $20–$50 if exceptionally attractive, large, or from a documented locality.

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 a water-worn sedimentary pebble cemented by silica and iron oxides, then rounded by stream or beach transport. Its exact geological age cannot be determined from the image; ferruginous sandstones occur from Precambrian to modern formations.

Uses & applications

Common material for landscaping, decorative stone, crafts, and educational collections; generally little commercial value unless unusually patterned or locality-specific.

Geological facts

The red-brown color is produced mainly by hematite and/or goethite coatings between quartz grains. Its smooth shape indicates prolonged abrasion in flowing water or surf.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its gritty granular surface, rusty-red coloration, rounded form, and lack of visible crystals; a streak, acid, hardness, and specific-gravity test would refine identification. Common in stream gravels, beaches, and weathered sandstone outcrops worldwide.