sedimentary

Weathered river pebble, likely quartz-rich sandstone or iron-stained quartzite

Provisional identification: quartz-rich sandstone/quartzite; exact composition cannot be confirmed from the image

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Rounded, tan-brown, dull to weakly earthy luster with granular texture and possible iron-oxide staining; apparent hardness about 6–7 if quartz-rich, with no visible cleavage. Specific gravity is roughly 2.5–2.7.

Identified August 11, 2026More sedimentary →

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At a glance

Common name: Weathered river pebble, likely quartz-rich sandstone or iron-stained quartzite
Scientific name: Provisional identification: quartz-rich sandstone/quartzite; exact composition cannot be confirmed from the image
Category: sedimentary
Identified: August 11, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Typically $0–$5 as an ordinary pebble; approximately $5–$20 if unusually colorful, polished, or confirmed as decorative jasper/quartzite.

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 natural abrasion in a stream, beach, or glacial deposit; sandstone formed from compacted sand, while quartzite formed when sandstone was metamorphosed. Age is indeterminate from a photograph.

Uses & applications

Primarily a common landscape or teaching specimen; it has little industrial or jewelry value unless confirmed as an attractive jasper, quartzite, or another distinctive rock.

Geological facts

The rounded shape records prolonged transport or weathering. Brown coloration commonly comes from limonite or hematite coating or cement.

Field identification & locations

Check for visible quartz grains, a gritty versus fused texture, and streak: quartz-rich material should not be scratched by a steel knife easily, while calcite-rich rock fizzes in dilute acid. Common in river gravels worldwide.