mineral

Weathered quartz-rich pebble, possibly jasper or chert

Microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂), with iron-oxide staining and possible clay/mineral inclusions

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; tan, brown, gray, and reddish coloration; dull to waxy luster; massive, non-cleavable microcrystalline texture; likely specific gravity near 2.6. The rounded shape and surface wear indicate natural water abrasion or tumbling.

Identified August 23, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Weathered quartz-rich pebble, possibly jasper or chert
Scientific name: Microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂), with iron-oxide staining and possible clay/mineral inclusions
Category: mineral
Identified: August 23, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $1–$10 as a common rough pebble; approximately $10–$40 if it has attractive patterns, polish, or confirmed lapidary quality.

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 by silica-rich replacement, cementation, or volcanic sediment alteration, followed by weathering and transport; precise age and locality cannot be determined from the image. Iron oxides produce the brown-red coloration.

Uses & applications

Suitable as a common lapidary rough, tumbled stone, cabochon, or decorative specimen; generally not suitable for structural construction. Commercial value is mainly aesthetic.

Geological facts

Jasper and chert are varieties of microcrystalline quartz and can look nearly identical in hand photographs. A steel file should generally fail to scratch it, while quartz should scratch glass.

Field identification & locations

Common in stream gravels, weathered volcanic terrains, and sedimentary deposits worldwide; inspect for conchoidal fracture, translucency at thin edges, and consistent quartz-like hardness. Identification remains provisional without tests or locality information.