sedimentary

Yellow-brown river pebble

Likely iron-stained chert or fine-grained sandstone; exact identification requires hardness and acid tests

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Smooth, rounded, opaque tan-yellow surface with small pits and earthy/waxy luster. Likely hardness about 5–7 Mohs if chert, or 2–6 if sandstone; no visible crystals or cleavage.

Identified September 8, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Smooth, rounded, opaque tan-yellow surface with small pits and earthy/waxy luster. Likely hardness about 5–7 Mohs if chert, or 2–6 if sandstone; no visible crystals or cleavage.

Formation & geological history

Rounded by prolonged transport in a stream, river, or beach; yellow-brown color commonly comes from iron-oxide staining. The underlying sedimentary material may range from Paleozoic to much younger, depending on locality.

Uses & applications

Primarily a decorative or educational specimen; suitable for landscaping, crafts, and pebble collections. It has little commercial value unless confirmed as an attractive or locally notable material.

Geological facts

The smooth shape is produced by abrasion during transport, while surface pits may reflect softer grains or weathering. A steel file or quartz crystal can test hardness, and dilute hydrochloric acid can check for carbonate cement.

Field identification & locations

Common in river gravels worldwide. Chert scratches glass and usually leaves a sharp, conchoidal fracture; sandstone feels grainy and may shed grains, while limestone fizzes weakly in acid.