sedimentary

Weathered sandstone or iron-rich mudstone fragment

Clastic sedimentary rock, likely quartz–feldspar sandstone with iron-oxide cement

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Fine- to medium-grained, brown and porous, with a dull earthy luster and no visible crystals or cleavage; individual grains are weakly cemented. Estimated hardness is about 3–6 Mohs, depending on cement, and specific gravity roughly 2.2–2.6.

Identified August 10, 2026More sedimentary →

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At a glance

Common name: Weathered sandstone or iron-rich mudstone fragment
Scientific name: Clastic sedimentary rock, likely quartz–feldspar sandstone with iron-oxide cement
Category: sedimentary
Identified: August 10, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Typically $0–$10 as an ordinary fragment; potentially higher only if proven archaeological, fossil-bearing, or from a documented locality.

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 silt deposited in a river, floodplain, dune, or shallow-water environment; its exact geological age cannot be determined from the image. Brown coloration likely comes from oxidized iron minerals (hematite/goethite).

Uses & applications

Common sandstone is used for building stone, paving, aggregate, and landscaping; small weathered fragments generally have little commercial use or value.

Geological facts

The irregular holes and softened edges suggest weathering, wind abrasion, or dissolution of less-resistant grains or cement. It may also be a fragment of an old masonry or archaeological material, which cannot be confirmed visually.

Field identification & locations

Look for gritty texture, visible sediment grains, bedding, and a streak or powder that is usually pale brown; sandstone typically scratches more easily than quartz. Common worldwide in sedimentary basins.