Mudstone
A variety of Sedimentary
What is Mudstone?
This sedimentary rock is unusual for its superfine grains (usually clay or silt) which give it a nearly smooth appearance. Mudstones don’t have many industrial uses, as they tend to be quite soft and breakable. One variety of this stone, shale, can be used decoratively and has also been used as a roofing material for millennia. If you see a stone-tiled roof, there’s a good chance it's made of mudstone!
Uses & Applications
Mudstone is often found in close association with naturally occurring oil and gas, and it may be used to track the location of those particular reservoirs. Mudstone may also be used in the creation of pottery, bricks and roofing tiles, and cement.
Discover Values
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Mudstone before comparing listings or appraisals.
Size & Weight
Larger, intact specimens usually command higher prices.
Rarity & Demand
Scarce material or popular varieties sell at a premium.
Condition & Finish
Chips, repairs, and heavy wear lower value; clean prep helps.
Treatment & Provenance
Untreated specimens with documented locality are prized.
Mudstone Localities Map
See where Mudstone is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Key Characteristics
Rock Types of Mudstone
Mudstone can be separated into these categories: Siltstone — more than half of the composition is silt-sized particles. Claystone — more than half of the composition is clay-sized particles. Mudstone— hardened mud; a mix of silt and clay sized particles. Mudstone can include: Shale — exhibits lamination or fissility. Argillite — has undergone low-grade metamorphism.
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Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Various colors, often brown, gray, red, black, tan
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 2 - 3
- Density
- 2.4 - 2.8 g/cm³
Chemical Properties
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Mudstone FAQs
How do I identify Mudstone?
Mudstone can be identified by its hardness of 2 - 3 on the Mohs scale, Various colors color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Mudstone?
Mudstone typically appears in Various colors, often brown, gray, red, black, tan. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Mudstone?
Mudstone has a hardness of 2 - 3 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.
What is the rock types of mudstone of Mudstone?
Mudstone can be separated into these categories: Siltstone — more than half of the composition is silt-sized particles. Claystone — more than half of the composition is clay-sized particles. Mudstone— hardened mud; a mix of silt and clay sized particles. Mudstone can include: Shale — exhibits lamination or fissility. Argillite — has undergone low-grade metamorphism.
