metamorphic

Weathered quartz-bearing rock, possibly mica schist or pegmatite

Quartz (SiO₂) with probable mica and feldspar; exact rock identification is uncertain from the photograph

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Coarse, irregular gray-brown specimen with translucent glassy quartz and sparkly platy minerals, likely mica. Quartz has Mohs hardness 7, vitreous luster, no cleavage, and hexagonal crystal structure; mica is softer (about 2–3) with prominent basal cleavage.

Identified September 16, 2026More metamorphic →

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At a glance

Common name: Weathered quartz-bearing rock, possibly mica schist or pegmatite
Scientific name: Quartz (SiO₂) with probable mica and feldspar; exact rock identification is uncertain from the photograph
Category: metamorphic
Identified: September 16, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Approximately $1–$10 for an ordinary hand specimen; $10–$50 if it contains unusually well-formed, attractive crystals.

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 formed through metamorphism or crystallization in a silica-rich pegmatitic vein. Such rocks commonly formed in Precambrian to younger continental crust, but age cannot be determined visually.

Uses & applications

Common material has little commercial value as a small specimen, though quartz-rich pieces may be used decoratively or collected. Attractive crystals can be sold as mineral specimens.

Geological facts

The reflective flakes are probably muscovite or biotite mica, while the pale translucent grains are quartz; brown coloration may reflect iron staining or weathering.

Field identification & locations

Look for scratch resistance, glassy quartz grains, and mica flakes that split into thin sheets; a steel knife should not scratch quartz, but may scratch mica or feldspar. Common in granitic and metamorphic terrains worldwide.