sedimentary

Weathered sandstone fragment

Clastic sandstone, composed mainly of quartz and feldspar grains cemented by silica, calcite, or iron oxides

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Tan-orange, granular, and dull to earthy; likely Mohs hardness 6–7 for quartz-rich grains, with no visible cleavage. The rounded shape and iron-stained surface indicate weathering and abrasion.

Identified September 11, 2026More sedimentary →

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At a glance

Common name: Weathered sandstone fragment
Scientific name: Clastic sandstone, composed mainly of quartz and feldspar grains cemented by silica, calcite, or iron oxides
Category: sedimentary
Identified: September 11, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Generally $0–$5 for an ordinary fragment; $10–$50 or more only for unusually attractive, fossiliferous, or provenance-documented specimens.

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

Tan-orange, granular, and dull to earthy; likely Mohs hardness 6–7 for quartz-rich grains, with no visible cleavage. The rounded shape and iron-stained surface indicate weathering and abrasion.

Formation & geological history

Formed when sand-sized sediment was deposited, compacted, and cemented, commonly in rivers, beaches, or deserts; its precise age and provenance cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Used as building stone, paving, aggregate, and decorative landscaping material; this small weathered piece has negligible commercial or jewelry value.

Geological facts

The orange coloration commonly results from hematite or limonite coatings on sand grains. Sandstone may preserve cross-bedding, ripples, fossils, or trace fossils, none clearly visible here.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its gritty texture, visible sand grains, sedimentary layering, and ability to scratch glass if quartz-rich; common worldwide, especially in sedimentary basins. The image is consistent with sandstone but could also represent weathered iron-rich concrete or another granular rock.