metamorphic
Weathered quartz-rich metamorphic rock, likely quartzite
Quartzite (mostly SiO₂), possibly ferruginous mica-bearing quartzite
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness about 7 Mohs; coarse, interlocking translucent white-gray quartz with brown, yellow, and black iron-oxide or mica staining. Vitreous to dull luster, massive texture, no obvious cleavage, and high durability; exact identification is limited by the photograph.
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Physical properties
Hardness about 7 Mohs; coarse, interlocking translucent white-gray quartz with brown, yellow, and black iron-oxide or mica staining. Vitreous to dull luster, massive texture, no obvious cleavage, and high durability; exact identification is limited by the photograph.
Formation & geological history
Formed when quartz-rich sandstone recrystallized under heat and pressure, commonly during regional metamorphism; its age depends on the original sandstone and local tectonic history. Brown-yellow coloration likely reflects weathering and oxidation of iron-bearing minerals.
Uses & applications
Used as aggregate, road stone, building stone, landscaping material, and occasionally as decorative or lapidary rough. This ordinary weathered specimen has limited commercial value.
Geological facts
Quartzite commonly preserves little of the original sandstone texture because quartz grains fuse during metamorphism. A steel file generally fails to scratch fresh quartzite, whereas it may scratch softer weathered coatings or feldspar-rich rock.
Field identification & locations
Look for fused quartz grains, gritty fracture surfaces, and resistance to scratching; unlike marble, it does not fizz with dilute acid. Common in metamorphic mountain belts worldwide, including India, Brazil, the United States, and Scandinavia.
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