metamorphic

Weathered sulfide-bearing metamorphic rock, possibly pyrite-rich schist

Quartz–mica schist with iron sulfides (likely pyrite, FeS₂); exact identification requires testing

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness approximately 3–7 depending on minerals; mottled gray, olive, yellow-brown, and rusty colors with a dull to locally metallic luster. Irregular foliation and granular texture are visible; weathering produces iron-oxide staining.

Identified September 6, 2026More metamorphic →

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At a glance

Common name: Weathered sulfide-bearing metamorphic rock, possibly pyrite-rich schist
Scientific name: Quartz–mica schist with iron sulfides (likely pyrite, FeS₂); exact identification requires testing
Category: metamorphic
Identified: September 6, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$25 for a common hand specimen; $30–$100+ if verified and unusually mineralized or attractive.

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 a clay- or volcanic-rich protolith was metamorphosed under moderate pressure and temperature, with later oxidation of sulfide minerals. A precise age and locality cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Primarily a collecting specimen; similar rocks may be used as dimension stone or aggregate, though sulfide-bearing material can generate acidic drainage. If pyrite-rich, it has limited commercial value unless crystals are well formed.

Geological facts

Yellow metallic patches may be pyrite, chalcopyrite, or iron-oxide pseudomorphs, but color alone is insufficient for confirmation. A streak, hardness, magnetism, and acid test would help distinguish sulfides from weathered coatings.

Field identification & locations

Look for planar foliation, sparkly mica, quartz, and brassy metallic grains; pyrite is harder than a knife and leaves a dark greenish-black streak, while limonite leaves a yellow-brown streak. Common in metamorphic belts worldwide.