metamorphic
Weathered quartz-rich rock, possibly quartzite or sandstone
Likely quartzite (mostly SiO₂), though heavily weathered sandstone is possible
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectCream to tan, granular and rough with brown iron-oxide staining; likely vitreous to dull luster, no obvious cleavage, and hardness around Mohs 7 if quartzite. The small specimen’s texture is partly obscured by weathering.
Identified More metamorphic →
Explore Weathered quartz-rich rock, possibly quartzite or sandstone in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Cream to tan, granular and rough with brown iron-oxide staining; likely vitreous to dull luster, no obvious cleavage, and hardness around Mohs 7 if quartzite. The small specimen’s texture is partly obscured by weathering.
Formation & geological history
Quartzite forms when quartz-rich sandstone is recrystallized under heat and pressure during mountain-building; sandstone forms by cementation of sand. Precise age and locality cannot be determined from the image.
Uses & applications
Quartzite is used as aggregate, building stone, road material, and occasionally as a decorative stone; attractive pieces may be collected but this specimen appears ordinary.
Geological facts
Quartz-rich rocks commonly resist weathering, while iron oxides produce the rusty brown patches visible here.
Field identification & locations
Test a fresh edge with a steel knife and glass: strong glass scratching suggests quartz-rich material; dilute acid should not fizz unless carbonate cement is present. Common in metamorphic belts and quartz-rich sedimentary terrains worldwide.
More like this
