sedimentary

Weathered sandstone or quartz-rich sedimentary rock

Likely quartz arenite or feldspathic sandstone; exact identification requires testing

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Tan to gray-brown, dull earthy luster, visibly granular and heavily weathered; predominantly quartz with possible feldspar, clay minerals, and iron oxides. Hardness likely 6–7 on resistant grains, but the rock may crumble; cleavage absent and specific gravity about 2.2–2.7.

Identified September 14, 2026More sedimentary →

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At a glance

Common name: Weathered sandstone or quartz-rich sedimentary rock
Scientific name: Likely quartz arenite or feldspathic sandstone; exact identification requires testing
Category: sedimentary
Identified: September 14, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Typically $1–$10 as an unprovenanced hand specimen; higher value requires unusual color, fossils, provenance, or attractive polished surfaces.

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-sized sediment, probably in a river, shoreline, dune, or desert environment. Its precise geological age cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Used as building stone, aggregate, paving, and occasionally decorative stone; this irregular specimen has little practical or jewelry value.

Geological facts

The rusty coloration commonly comes from iron-oxide staining, while pale patches may be quartz-rich cement or weathered feldspar.

Field identification & locations

Look for sand-sized grains, gritty texture, bedding, and fizzing absent or weak with dilute hydrochloric acid; a streak, hardness, and acid test would distinguish it from limestone or altered igneous rock. Sandstone occurs worldwide, especially in sedimentary basins.