sedimentary

Sandstone

Arenite (primarily SiO2)

Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Tan, brown, or yellow; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal structure: Granular; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.2-2.8

Identified May 29, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Tan, brown, or yellow; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal structure: Granular; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.2-2.8

Formed from the accumulation and cementation of mineral particles (sand) over millions of years, typically in desert, river, or coastal environments.

Widely used as an architectural stone for building, paving, and decorative garden features. Also used as a filter in water purification.

Sandstone makes up about 10-20% of all sedimentary rocks on Earth. It is often porous and serves as a major reservoir for groundwater and petroleum.

Identify by its gritty, sandpaper-like texture. Commonly found in canyon walls and riverbeds. Look for visible layers or bedding planes.

Sandstone or Siltstone

Arenite (if sandstone)

Sandstone

Arenite (primarily SiO2)

Sandstone Grain

Clastic Sedimentary Rock Grain (SiO2 dominated)

Chert Breccia

Brecciated Chert (Microcrystalline Silica)

Shale or Slaty Mudstone

Argillaceous sedimentary rock

Sandstone

Arenite