sedimentary

Weathered sandstone or quartz-rich rock fragment

Indeterminate siliciclastic sandstone; primarily quartz (SiO₂) with feldspar and iron-oxide cement

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Tan-brown, dull to slightly earthy luster, visibly granular and likely porous; quartz-rich sandstone is typically Mohs 6–7 for individual grains, with no obvious cleavage. The image is too low-resolution for confident mineral identification.

Identified August 14, 2026More sedimentary →

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At a glance

Common name: Weathered sandstone or quartz-rich rock fragment
Scientific name: Indeterminate siliciclastic sandstone; primarily quartz (SiO₂) with feldspar and iron-oxide cement
Category: sedimentary
Identified: August 14, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Typically $0–$5 for an unremarkable fragment; attractive, fossiliferous, or historically significant specimens 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

Likely formed when sand was deposited, compacted, and cemented in a sedimentary basin, generally over millions to hundreds of millions of years; brown coloration commonly reflects oxidized iron. Exact age and formation environment cannot be determined visually.

Uses & applications

Common sandstone is used for building stone, paving, aggregate, and landscaping; ordinary fragments have little jewelry or industrial value.

Geological facts

Sandstone often preserves cross-bedding, ripple marks, fossils, or rounded grains that reveal its depositional environment. A hand lens and fresh fracture would improve identification.

Field identification & locations

Look for distinct sand-sized grains, layered texture, and scratching by steel or quartz; acid testing is usually negative unless carbonate cement is present. Common worldwide, especially in sedimentary basins.