sedimentary

Weathered red sandstone or iron-rich mudstone pebble

Clastic sedimentary rock, likely ferruginous sandstone/mudstone (quartz-rich, hematite-stained)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Reddish-brown, fine-grained, dull to earthy luster, porous and visibly weathered; individual grains are poorly resolved. Typical hardness is about 3–6 Mohs depending on clay and quartz content; no obvious cleavage or crystal structure.

Identified August 26, 2026More sedimentary →

Explore Weathered red sandstone or iron-rich mudstone pebble in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

At a glance

Common name: Weathered red sandstone or iron-rich mudstone pebble
Scientific name: Clastic sedimentary rock, likely ferruginous sandstone/mudstone (quartz-rich, hematite-stained)
Category: sedimentary
Identified: August 26, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Typically $1–$10 as an ordinary pebble; up to about $20–$50 if unusually colored, locality-labeled, or sold as a polished/display specimen.

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

Formed from compacted and cemented sand- or mud-sized sediment, with iron oxides producing the red color; age cannot be determined from the photograph. Rounded edges indicate transport and abrasion, while the cavity reflects weathering or a weak layer.

Uses & applications

Common sandstone is used as building stone, aggregate, paving, and abrasives; this small weathered pebble has mainly decorative or educational value.

Geological facts

The red coloration commonly comes from hematite coatings on grains rather than abundant red minerals. The long surface crack may reflect desiccation, bedding weakness, or mechanical weathering.

Field identification & locations

Likely locations include streambeds, beaches, arid landscapes, and sedimentary outcrops. A hand lens should reveal sand grains; dilute hydrochloric acid tests carbonate cement, while a streak test and hardness test help distinguish iron-rich mudstone from sandstone.