sedimentary

Weathered sandstone or iron-stained sedimentary pebble

Quartz-rich sandstone, likely ferruginous sandstone (SiO₂-dominated)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Tan-orange, dull to earthy luster, fine-grained and rounded with a porous, weathered surface; individual crystals are not visible. Likely Mohs hardness 5–7 depending on cement, with no obvious cleavage and moderate density around 2.2–2.6 g/cm³.

Identified August 26, 2026More sedimentary →

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At a glance

Common name: Weathered sandstone or iron-stained sedimentary pebble
Scientific name: Quartz-rich sandstone, likely ferruginous sandstone (SiO₂-dominated)
Category: sedimentary
Identified: August 26, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Typically $1–$10 as an unprovenance common specimen; unusual color, locality, or documented fossil content could raise it to roughly $10–$30.

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, probably in a river, shoreline, dune, or shallow-marine setting; iron oxides produced the ochre color during weathering. Its exact geological age cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Common sandstone is used as building stone, paving, aggregate, and decorative material; this small specimen has primarily educational or modest collecting value.

Geological facts

The rounded shape indicates prolonged abrasion or chemical weathering. The small depression may be a natural pit, weathering cavity, or former spot of softer material rather than a crystal pocket.

Field identification & locations

Look for gritty quartz grains, visible bedding, and a scratch resistance near quartz; sandstone commonly fizzes weakly or not at all in dilute acid unless carbonate-cemented. Common worldwide, especially in sedimentary basins and streambeds.