sedimentary
Sandstone (Ferruginous)
Clastic Sedimentary Rock (Litharenite)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Brown, tan, or rust-orange; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Structure: Clastic with visible sand grains; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Brown, tan, or rust-orange
- Luster
- Dull/Earthy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Brown, tan, or rust-orange; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Structure: Clastic with visible sand grains; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accumulation and cementation of mineral grains or rock fragments. Grains are often quartz or feldspar bonded by iron oxides in this specimen, typical of continental or shallow marine environments.
Uses & applications
Commonly used as a building material, paving stone, or abrasive. Fine-grained varieties are used for grindstones.
Geological facts
Sandstone is one of the most common sedimentary rocks in the Earth's crust. Most of the world's groundwater and oil reservoirs are held in the pores of sandstone formations.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its gritty texture (feels like sandpaper) and visible bedding layers. It is found globally in deserts, riverbeds, and ocean basins.
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