sedimentary
Sandstone (Ferruginous)
Arenite (with iron oxide cement)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Reddish-brown to tan; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal Structure: Clastic (composed of sand-sized mineral grains); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Reddish-brown to tan
- 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; Color: Reddish-brown to tan; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal Structure: Clastic (composed of sand-sized mineral grains); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accumulation and cementation of sand-sized silicate grains (mostly quartz). The reddish hue is caused by the presence of iron oxide (hematite) during the lithification process. Common in prehistoric riverbeds, deserts, and coastal environments.
Uses & applications
Used extensively as a building and paving material, for grindstones, and sometimes as a source of high-purity silica for glassmaking. Also popular as a decorative landscaping stone.
Geological facts
Sandstone is one of the most common types of sedimentary rock and provides critical data for geologists to map paleo-environments and calculate the history of Earth's surface water and wind patterns.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its gritty, sandpaper-like texture and visible grains. It is commonly found in the US Southwest, the UK, and Australia. Look for bedding planes or layering within larger outcrops.
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