sedimentary

Weathered sandstone or mudstone

Clastic siliciclastic sedimentary rock, probably quartz-rich sandstone; exact identification requires a fresh surface and tests

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Tan-yellow, dull and fine to medium grained, with iron-oxide staining and weak bedding/fracturing; likely Mohs hardness about 5–7 for sandstone, lower if mudstone, with no obvious cleavage and low-to-moderate density.

Identified August 12, 2026More sedimentary →

Explore Weathered sandstone or mudstone in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

At a glance

Common name: Weathered sandstone or mudstone
Scientific name: Clastic siliciclastic sedimentary rock, probably quartz-rich sandstone; exact identification requires a fresh surface and tests
Category: sedimentary
Identified: August 12, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $1–$10 for an ordinary specimen; labeled, unusually textured, or fossil-bearing pieces may sell for $10–$50.

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 or silt accumulated, compacted, and cemented in an ancient river, floodplain, lake, or shallow-marine environment; its age cannot be determined from the image and may range from Paleozoic to recent.

Uses & applications

Common sandstone is used as building stone, paving, aggregate, and occasionally decorative material; ordinary hand specimens generally have minimal commercial value.

Geological facts

The rusty coloration is typically caused by hematite or limonite cement, while the rounded surface reflects weathering and abrasion.

Field identification & locations

Look for visible sand grains, layered texture, and a gritty feel; a dilute hydrochloric-acid test should show little reaction unless carbonate cement is present. Common worldwide, especially in sedimentary basins.