sedimentary

Sandstone

Arenite

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: reddish-brown, tan, or grey; Luster: dull to earthy; Crystal Structure: Clastic (composed of sand-sized grains); Cleavage: missing; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale
Color: reddish-brown, tan, or grey
Luster: dull to earthy

Identified May 24, 2026More sedimentary →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: reddish-brown, tan, or grey; Luster: dull to earthy; Crystal Structure: Clastic (composed of sand-sized grains); Cleavage: missing; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8

Formation & geological history

Formed from the accumulation and cementation of sand-sized mineral particles or rock fragments. Typically deposited in desert, river, or ocean environments over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Used extensively in construction as building stone, pavers, and decorative facades. Crushed sandstone is used in road base and concrete. Higher purity silica sand is used in glassmaking.

Geological facts

Sandstone is one of the most common sedimentary rocks. The famous 'Red Rocks' in Colorado and the Grand Canyon are primarily composed of various layers of sandstone.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its gritty, sandpaper-like texture and visible layers (bedding). It is found globally in sedimentary basins. Collectors often look for colorful banding or fossil inclusions.