sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Tan, beige, brown; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal structure: Granular clastic; Cleavage: None/Irregular; Specific gravity: 2.2-2.8
- Hardness
- 6-7 Mohs
- Color
- Tan, beige, brown
- 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, brown; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal structure: Granular clastic; Cleavage: None/Irregular; Specific gravity: 2.2-2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accumulation and lithification of sand-sized mineral particles or rock fragments, typically deposited in river beds, beaches, or deserts over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction for building stone, paving, and as an aggregate. In industry, it is a source of silica and act as a reservoir for oil and groundwater.
Geological facts
Sandstone makes up about 10-25% of the sedimentary rock on Earth. It is the material used to build the famous city of Petra in Jordan and many iconic American landmarks like the 'Red Rocks' of Colorado.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its gritty, sandpaper-to-the-touch texture. It is commonly found in sedimentary basins and road cuts. Look for visible layering or bedding planes.
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