metamorphic

Weathered quartz-rich rock, possibly quartzite or silicified breccia

Quartzite (predominantly SiO₂); exact identification requires a fresh surface and tests

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Gray to white, coarse and irregular, with rusty orange-brown iron-oxide staining and possible darker inclusions. Quartz has Mohs hardness 7, vitreous to dull luster, no cleavage, and conchoidal to granular fracture; specific gravity is about 2.6–2.7.

Identified September 6, 2026More metamorphic →

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At a glance

Common name: Weathered quartz-rich rock, possibly quartzite or silicified breccia
Scientific name: Quartzite (predominantly SiO₂); exact identification requires a fresh surface and tests
Category: metamorphic
Identified: September 6, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Approximately $5–$25 as an ordinary loose specimen; potentially $30–$100+ with verified locality or attractive mineralization.

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

If quartzite, it formed when quartz-rich sandstone was metamorphosed under elevated temperature and pressure, commonly during mountain building. Iron staining reflects later weathering and oxidation; its precise geological age cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Common quartzite is used as crushed stone, aggregate, road material, building stone, and occasionally decorative material. This specimen has little commercial value unless locality, unusual texture, or mineralization makes it collectible.

Geological facts

The apparent gray matrix and rusty seams could also indicate silicified breccia, vein quartz, or another quartz-rich rock rather than true quartzite. A steel file should not scratch fresh quartz-rich surfaces; dilute hydrochloric acid should produce little or no reaction.

Field identification & locations

Common in metamorphic mountain belts and quartz-vein zones worldwide; inspect a freshly broken face for interlocking quartz grains and test hardness. Orange areas are likely limonite/goethite weathering products.