sedimentary
Sandstone (Ferruginous)
Arenite with Iron-oxide inclusions (SiO2 primarily)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale (due to quartz content); Color: Gray, tan, and reddish-brown (iron staining); Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal structure: Clastic (composed of grains); Cleavage: None
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale (due to quartz content)
- Color
- Gray, tan, and reddish-brown (iron staining)
- 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 on Mohs scale (due to quartz content); Color: Gray, tan, and reddish-brown (iron staining); Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal structure: Clastic (composed of grains); Cleavage: None
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accumulation and cementation of mineral grains or rock fragments, typically in river beds, oceans, or deserts. This specific specimen shows weathering and iron leaching, common in fluvial environments.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in construction as building stone, pavers, and as an aggregate. High-purity sandstone is used in glass making.
Geological facts
Sandstone makes up about 20-25% of all sedimentary rocks on Earth. The red/orange bands often seen in such rocks are known as Liesegang rings, caused by chemical precipitation of iron oxides.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its gritty, sandpaper-like texture. It occurs worldwide where sedimentary basins exist. Collectors should look for unique layering or fossils within the matrix.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (primarily SiO2)
sedimentary
Chert Breccia
Brecciated Chert (Microcrystalline Silica)
sedimentary
Sandstone Grain
Clastic Sedimentary Rock Grain (SiO2 dominated)
sedimentary
Shale or Slaty Mudstone
Argillaceous sedimentary rock
sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite
sedimentary