sedimentary

Weathered sandstone pebble

Quartz-rich sandstone, likely ferruginous litharenite

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Tan-brown, dull to earthy luster, rounded and moderately porous, with fine granular texture and small dark inclusions. Quartz is typically Mohs 7, but the whole rock is weaker and commonly scratches around Mohs 3–5; no obvious cleavage is visible.

Identified August 16, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed when sand grains—mainly quartz—were compacted and cemented, commonly by silica, calcite, or iron oxides; later rounded by stream or shoreline transport and weathering. Its exact geological age cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Used as building stone, paving aggregate, and landscaping material; attractive varieties may be polished or collected, though this specimen appears low-grade and ornamental value is minimal.

Geological facts

The brown coloration likely reflects iron-oxide staining. Rounded edges and a gritty surface are typical of water-worn sandstone rather than a crystalline igneous rock.

Field identification & locations

Common in sedimentary terrains, riverbeds, beaches, and gravel deposits worldwide. A hand lens should reveal sand-sized grains; dilute hydrochloric acid may fizz if carbonate cement is present, while a streak test is generally inconclusive.