sedimentary

Weathered sandstone pebble

Quartz-rich sandstone, likely dominated by quartz (SiO₂) with minor clay and iron-oxide staining

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Tan to ochre, dull and granular with scattered dark grains; rounded by abrasion. Typically Mohs 6–7 for quartz grains, with no consistent cleavage; exact composition cannot be confirmed from the photo.

Identified October 4, 2026More sedimentary →

Explore Weathered sandstone pebble in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

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

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Sand grains were cemented into rock by burial and later erosion rounded this pebble. Sandstone forms in settings such as rivers, beaches, and deserts; its age is indeterminate from appearance alone.

Uses & applications

Sandstone is widely used as building and paving stone and as a source of construction aggregate. This small pebble has little commercial value beyond collecting or decoration.

Geological facts

Iron oxides commonly give sandstone yellow, tan, or reddish colors. A hand lens can reveal individual sand grains and cement between them.

Field identification & locations

Likely sandstone, but the image alone cannot rule out a fine-grained weathered rock. Look for a gritty texture and visible sand-sized grains; sandstone occurs worldwide in sedimentary basins and river or beach deposits.