Dropstone

A dropstone of quartzite in layered rhythmite at Itu, Brazil

Dropstones are isolated fragments of rock found within finer-grained water-deposited sedimentary rocks or pyroclastic beds. They range in size from small pebbles to boulders. The critical distinguishing feature is that there is evidence that they were not transported by normal water currents, but rather dropped in vertically through the air or water column. Such depositions can occur during a volcanic eruption, e.g.