metamorphic

Weathered quartz-rich metamorphic rock

Likely quartzite or quartz-mica schist; predominantly SiO₂ quartz with possible feldspar and mica

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Gray to tan, granular, unevenly crystalline, with a dull to sugary vitreous luster and no obvious cleavage; estimated hardness 6–7 Mohs. The rounded shape and surface pitting indicate natural weathering or stream abrasion.

Identified September 5, 2026More metamorphic →

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At a glance

Common name: Weathered quartz-rich metamorphic rock
Scientific name: Likely quartzite or quartz-mica schist; predominantly SiO₂ quartz with possible feldspar and mica
Category: metamorphic
Identified: September 5, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Generally $1–$10 as a common field specimen; higher only if locality, texture, or mineral associations are distinctive.

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

Probably formed when quartz-rich sandstone was metamorphosed under heat and pressure, recrystallizing into quartzite; alternatively it may be a quartz-rich schist. Precise age and identification require a fresh break, hardness testing, and thin-section or chemical analysis.

Uses & applications

Quartzite is used as aggregate, road stone, building stone, and occasionally decorative material; attractive pieces may be collected but this specimen has little commercial value.

Geological facts

Quartzite commonly resists weathering better than surrounding rocks, producing rounded cobbles and ridges. Visible grain boundaries and weak layering can distinguish it from massive vein quartz.

Field identification & locations

Common in metamorphic terrains and stream gravels; test by scratching glass, which quartzite should do, and inspect a broken surface for interlocking quartz grains. It is not possible to distinguish quartzite from quartz-rich schist confidently from this image alone.