sedimentary
Sandstone (Ferruginous)
Arenite with Iron Oxide cement (SiO2 + Fe2O3)
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Red-brown, tan, and earthy pink; Luster: Dull to earthy; Crystal structure: Granular/Clastic; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
- Hardness
- 6-7 Mohs
- Color
- Red-brown, tan, and earthy pink
- Luster
- Dull to earthy
Identified More sedimentary →
Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Red-brown, tan, and earthy pink; Luster: Dull to earthy; Crystal structure: Granular/Clastic; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accumulation and cementation of sand-sized mineral grains or rock fragments. Often formed in arid environments or riverbeds where iron oxides available in water act as a cementing agent causing the red coloration.
Uses & applications
Used primarily as decorative landscaping stone or building material. Crushed sandstone is sometimes used as a flux in manufacturing or for glass sand if it is high in silica.
Geological facts
The red color in this specimen is caused by the presence of iron oxide minerals like hematite coating the individual sand grains. It is a very common sedimentary rock that covers much of the Earth's surface.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its gritty, sandpaper-like texture and visible small grains. This specific specimen shows typical stream-rounded edges. Found globally in deserts, riverbeds, and sedimentary basins.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (primarily SiO2)
sedimentary
Sandstone Grain
Clastic Sedimentary Rock Grain (SiO2 dominated)
sedimentary
Shale or Slaty Mudstone
Argillaceous sedimentary rock
sedimentary
Chert Breccia
Brecciated Chert (Microcrystalline Silica)
sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite
sedimentary