sedimentary
Sandstone with Concretions / Liesegang Rings
Arenite with iron oxide banding
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs); Color: Tan, beige, grey with brown or curved banding; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Structure: Clastic; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
- Hardness
- 6-7 (Mohs)
- Color
- Tan, beige, grey with brown or curved banding
- Luster
- Dull/Earthy
Identified More sedimentary →
Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs); Color: Tan, beige, grey with brown or curved banding; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Structure: Clastic; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accumulation and cementation of sand-sized mineral grains or rock fragments. The distinct curved patterns (Liesegang rings) are secondary chemical precipitates formed as mineral-rich groundwater moves through the porous rock, often during the late stages of lithification.
Uses & applications
Building stone, paving, industrial sand for glass making, and as a decorative specimen for geological hobbyists.
Geological facts
The swirling patterns are often mistaken for fossils, like wood or shells, but are actually geochemical in origin. They represent rhythmic precipitation within a fluid-saturated rock matrix.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by the sandpaper-like texture and visual bands that cut across horizontal bedding lanes. Commonly found in arid or coastal regions with ancient sedimentary basins.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (primarily SiO2)
sedimentary
Shale or Slaty Mudstone
Argillaceous sedimentary rock
sedimentary
Chert Breccia
Brecciated Chert (Microcrystalline Silica)
sedimentary
Sandstone (Quartz-rich)
Arenite (SiO2)
sedimentary
Sandstone (with man-made markings)
Arenite (composed primarily of Quartz, SiO2)
sedimentary