sedimentary

Weathered river pebble, likely quartz-rich sandstone or quartzite

Indeterminate; probable quartz (SiO₂)-rich sandstone/quartzite with iron-oxide staining

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Rounded, fine-grained, tan to brown specimen with dull earthy-to-waxy luster and dark iron-oxide patches; likely hardness about 6–7 if quartz-rich, with no visible cleavage. Exact mineralogy cannot be confirmed from the photograph alone.

Identified September 15, 2026More sedimentary →

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At a glance

Common name: Weathered river pebble, likely quartz-rich sandstone or quartzite
Scientific name: Indeterminate; probable quartz (SiO₂)-rich sandstone/quartzite with iron-oxide staining
Category: sedimentary
Identified: September 15, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Usually $1–$10 as an ordinary pebble; up to roughly $10–$30 if unusually attractive, locality-specific, or sold as a polished 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

Natural abrasion in a stream, beach, or glacial environment produced the smooth shape; iron-bearing groundwater caused the yellow-brown staining. The parent sedimentary material may range from tens to hundreds of millions of years old, depending on locality.

Uses & applications

Primarily a decorative or teaching specimen; quartzite can be used as aggregate, road stone, and building stone, while sandstone is used in construction and landscaping.

Geological facts

The rounded form records transport and repeated impacts, but similar appearance can also result from weathered volcanic rock or chert.

Field identification & locations

Test a fresh surface with steel or a knife: quartz-rich material should resist scratching; vinegar is generally ineffective. Commonly found in river gravels, beaches, and glacial deposits.