metamorphic
Weathered quartzite pebble
Quartzite, composed predominantly of recrystallized quartz (SiO₂)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectTan, gray, and rusty-brown rounded pebble with a dull, weathered surface; quartzite is typically Mohs 7, vitreous to dull, and lacks cleavage, with interlocking grains. The image does not show enough detail to confirm the identification or measure properties.
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Physical properties
Tan, gray, and rusty-brown rounded pebble with a dull, weathered surface; quartzite is typically Mohs 7, vitreous to dull, and lacks cleavage, with interlocking grains. The image does not show enough detail to confirm the identification or measure properties.
Formation & geological history
Forms when quartz-rich sandstone is metamorphosed and its grains fuse into a hard rock; age depends on the source sandstone and metamorphic event. This specimen’s geological age and provenance cannot be determined from the photo.
Uses & applications
Quartzite is used as dimension stone, paving and construction aggregate, and sometimes as decorative stone; this small pebble has little commercial value.
Geological facts
Its high quartz content usually makes quartzite tougher and more resistant to weathering than the sandstone from which it formed.
Field identification & locations
A likely identification is quartzite, based on the rounded shape and pale, hard-looking surface, but a close examination or hardness test is needed to distinguish it from other weathered rocks. Quartzite occurs worldwide, especially in mountain belts and river gravels.
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