metamorphic

Weathered quartz-rich rock, possibly milky quartz or quartzite

Quartz (SiO₂), likely in a quartzite or silicified matrix

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Off-white to tan, translucent in places, with a dull-to-glassy luster and irregular fractures; quartz hardness is 7 Mohs, with no cleavage and specific gravity about 2.65. The rounded shape and surface staining indicate natural weathering or tumbling.

Identified September 11, 2026More metamorphic →

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At a glance

Common name: Weathered quartz-rich rock, possibly milky quartz or quartzite
Scientific name: Quartz (SiO₂), likely in a quartzite or silicified matrix
Category: metamorphic
Identified: September 11, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $1-$10 as an ordinary hand specimen; possibly $10-$30 if unusually attractive, polished, or confirmed as a rarer mineral assemblage.

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 silica-rich material crystallized or recrystallized during metamorphism, though the image alone cannot establish a precise rock type or age. Iron-oxide staining and prolonged erosion produced the yellow-brown surface.

Uses & applications

Common quartzite is used as aggregate, road stone, building stone, and sometimes decorative material; attractive pieces may be collected or polished. This specimen has limited commercial value unless testing reveals unusual mineral content.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is highly resistant to weathering, allowing quartz-rich stones to survive as rounded pebbles. The apparent bands and patches may reflect quartz veins, weathered feldspar, or surface coatings.

Field identification & locations

Look for glassy translucence, hardness sufficient to scratch ordinary glass, and absence of cleavage; quartzite typically shows interlocking grains and breaks irregularly. Common in stream gravels and metamorphic terrains worldwide.