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Likely Identifications Shiva Lingam: These are sacred, egg-shaped stones traditionally gathered from the Narmada River in India. They are typically smooth, polished, and composed of a mixture of agate, basalt, and jasper in quartz. [1, 2, 3] Red Quartzite: This is a very hard, dense rock formed when quartz sand grains are fused together under high pressure. It is often identified by its grainy texture and can appear in shades of red or brown due to iron staining. [1, 2] Red Jasper: This is an opaque variety of silica that is often deep red. It is frequently found as smooth, water-tumbled stones in riverbeds. [1, 2] Red Sandstone: If the rock has a more porous or layered texture, it may be a variety like Jacobsville sandstone, a red sedimentary rock common in the Great Lakes region. [1] Composition and Origin Shiva Lingam Specifics: Authentic Shiva Lingam stones are considered crypto-crystalline quartz. They often feature unique brownish or sand-colored patterns caused by iron oxide deposits. [1, 2] Durability: Both quartzite and jasper rank high on the Mohs hardness scale, making them physically durable and resistant to chemical weathering. [1]