sedimentary

Sandstone

Arenite (primarily SiO2)

Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Tan, brown, or buff; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal structure: Granular/Clastic; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8; Feel: Gritty like sandpaper.

Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale)
Color: Tan, brown, or buff
Luster: Dull/Earthy

Identified March 30, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Tan, brown, or buff; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal structure: Granular/Clastic; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8; Feel: Gritty like sandpaper.

Formation & geological history

Formed through the accumulation and cementation of sand-sized silicate grains (mostly quartz and feldspar). These deposits occur in desert, river, or coastal environments over millions of years through the process of lithification.

Uses & applications

Used extensively in construction as dimension stone for buildings, paving, and decorative tile. In industry, it is crushed for aggregate or used as a source of silica for glass manufacturing.

Geological facts

Sandstone preserves a significant portion of the Earth's fossil record and contains large reservoirs of groundwater and petroleum. Famous structures built from it include the White House and the ancient city of Petra.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinctive 'sandpaper' texture and visible mineral grains. It often displays bedding planes or cross-bedding. Found globally in sedimentary basins such as the Grand Canyon or the Appalachian Mountains.