metamorphic

Weathered quartz-rich metamorphic rock (likely gneiss or quartzite)

Quartz (SiO₂) with probable feldspar, mica, and iron-oxide alteration

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness approximately 6–7 Mohs; pale gray, cream, and brown; glassy to dull luster; granular crystalline texture with possible foliation and iron-stained surfaces. No clear cleavage is visible; specific gravity likely about 2.6–2.7.

Identified September 10, 2026More metamorphic →

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At a glance

Common name: Weathered quartz-rich metamorphic rock (likely gneiss or quartzite)
Scientific name: Quartz (SiO₂) with probable feldspar, mica, and iron-oxide alteration
Category: metamorphic
Identified: September 10, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $2–$15 for a common hand specimen; potentially $20–$50 if unusually attractive, polished, or demonstrably from a notable 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 formed when quartz- and feldspar-rich sediment or igneous rock was metamorphosed under elevated temperature and pressure, probably hundreds of millions to billions of years ago. Surface weathering produced the rough, brown staining and softened edges.

Uses & applications

Suitable mainly as a curiosity, teaching specimen, or landscaping stone; it has little value for jewelry or construction unless part of a larger, attractive, polishable slab.

Geological facts

The image does not show diagnostic crystal faces or layering, so exact identification is uncertain. The rounded outline may reflect natural weathering or human shaping rather than a distinctive rock form.

Field identification & locations

Look for quartz’s glassy grains, feldspar’s cloudy appearance, mica flakes, and any planar banding; a streak, hardness, acid, and fresh broken surface would improve identification. Similar rocks occur widely in continental shields and mountain belts.