sedimentary
Sandstone (with Iron Staining)
Clastic Sedimentary Rock (primarily SiO2 with Fe2O3 oxides)
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Tan/Grey with reddish-orange iron oxide staining; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Structure: Granular/Clastic; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
- Hardness
- 6-7 (Mohs scale)
- Color
- Tan/Grey with reddish-orange iron oxide 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 (Mohs scale); Color: Tan/Grey with reddish-orange iron oxide staining; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Structure: Granular/Clastic; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accumulation and cementation of mineral particles or rock fragments (sand) over millions of years. This specimen shows weathering and oxidation, where minerals containing iron have reacted with water and air to create the reddish rusty staining.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in construction as dimension stone for buildings, paving, and decorative garden features. In the crushed form, it is used in road base and concrete. Higher grade quartz sandstone is used in glass manufacturing.
Geological facts
Sandstone is one of the most common sedimentary rocks on Earth. Its porosity makes it a primary reservoir for underground water (aquifers) and fossil fuels like oil and natural gas.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its 'gritty' feel, similar to sandpaper, and visible sand-sized grains. It often displays bedding planes or layers. It is ubiquitous in arid and coastal environments.
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