sedimentary

Weathered sandstone pebble

Quartz-rich sandstone, likely ferruginous or arkosic

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Fine-grained, rounded and naturally smoothed; tan to yellow-brown with dull earthy luster and no visible crystals. Mostly quartz with possible feldspar, clay minerals, and iron oxides; hardness about 6–7 for quartz grains, though the rock may crumble locally; cleavage absent; specific gravity roughly 2.2–2.7.

Identified September 13, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from compacted and cemented sand, probably in a river, beach, or desert environment, then rounded by abrasion and weathering. Its exact geological age cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

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

Geological facts

The brown coloration commonly comes from iron-oxide coatings between or around quartz grains. Smooth edges indicate transport or prolonged surface weathering.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its sandy granular texture, muted tan color, and tendency to feel slightly rough rather than glassy; a hand lens should reveal individual grains. Sandstone occurs worldwide, especially in sedimentary basins and streambeds.