sedimentary
Sandstone Chert/Quartzite
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) - Sedimentary Sandstone / Orthoquartzite
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Tan, beige, or pale pink; Luster: Dull to earthy (waxy if chert-heavy); Crystal structure: Microcrystalline/Amorphous; Cleavage: None (conchoidal or irregular fracture); Specific gravity: 2.6-2.65.
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Tan, beige, or pale pink
- Luster
- Dull to earthy (waxy if chert-heavy)
Identified More sedimentary →
Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Tan, beige, or pale pink; Luster: Dull to earthy (waxy if chert-heavy); Crystal structure: Microcrystalline/Amorphous; Cleavage: None (conchoidal or irregular fracture); Specific gravity: 2.6-2.65.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accumulation and cementation of sand-sized silicate grains. Over millions of years, pressure and chemical precipitation of silica or calcium carbonate bind the grains together in marine or desert environments. This specimen appears highly weathered or water-worn.
Uses & applications
Commonly used as a building material, in the manufacturing of glass (if high silica content), and as an abrasive in industrial processes. Often used for road gravel or decorative landscaping.
Geological facts
Sandstone makes up about 20% of all sedimentary rocks on Earth. This specific fragment shows a slightly curved, conchoidal-style fracture common in silica-rich specimens, suggesting it may have been part of a river pebble or a larger cobble.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its gritty texture (feels like sandpaper) and its ability to scratch glass if it is silica-rich. This piece is widely found in riverbeds, glacial tills, and canyon outcrops across North America and Europe.
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