sedimentary

Weathered quartz-bearing sandstone

Quartz arenite or feldspathic sandstone (tentative)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Tan-gray, coarse-grained, dull to slightly gritty surface with visible pale quartz/feldspar grains; likely Mohs hardness 6–7 for grains, with poor to moderate cementation. No obvious cleavage; clastic sedimentary texture and irregular fracture are apparent.

Identified August 10, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed when sand accumulated, was compacted, and cemented by silica, carbonate, or iron oxides, likely in a river, beach, or shallow-basin setting. Its precise age and cement cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Commonly used as building stone, paving, aggregate, and historically as a source of silica; this individual piece has little commercial value unless unusually attractive or regionally significant.

Geological facts

The rusty tan coloration commonly reflects iron-oxide staining, while the rounded shape is probably stream abrasion and weathering rather than original crystal form.

Field identification & locations

Look for abundant sand-sized grains, gritty texture, layering, and resistance to scratching by steel; dilute acid may fizz if carbonate-cemented. Common worldwide in sedimentary basins and stream gravels.