sedimentary

Weathered sandstone or iron-rich sedimentary rock

Clastic sandstone, likely ferruginous sandstone (quartz-rich; exact identification uncertain from image)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Tan to ochre, fine- to medium-grained, dull and weathered with possible iron-oxide staining; sandstone typically has Mohs hardness 6–7 for quartz grains, no consistent cleavage, and variable porosity and specific gravity around 2.2–2.7.

Identified August 14, 2026More sedimentary →

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At a glance

Common name: Weathered sandstone or iron-rich sedimentary rock
Scientific name: Clastic sandstone, likely ferruginous sandstone (quartz-rich; exact identification uncertain from image)
Category: sedimentary
Identified: August 14, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $1–$10 as a common specimen; higher only if a verified fossil, unusual texture, or documented locality is present.

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 when sand-sized mineral grains accumulated, were compacted, and cemented, probably in a terrestrial, shoreline, or fluvial environment. The iron-rich brown coloration developed through oxidation during weathering; the precise age cannot be determined visually.

Uses & applications

Common sandstone is used as building stone, paving, aggregate, and occasionally decorative material. This specimen has limited jewelry value but may have modest interest as a field or educational sample.

Geological facts

The rounded outline and tan weathering rind are consistent with a transported cobble. Dark patches may be iron/manganese oxides or surface contamination rather than fossils.

Field identification & locations

Look for visible sand grains, gritty texture, irregular bedding, and a dull fractured surface; a steel nail generally will not scratch quartz-rich grains. Common worldwide, especially in riverbeds and sedimentary basins.