sedimentary
Sandstone
Sandstone (clastic sedimentary rock, predominantly SiO2)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale (of individual grains); Color: Tan, beige, or yellowish; Luster: Dull to vitreous grains; Structure: Granular/clastic; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale (of individual grains)
- Color
- Tan, beige, or yellowish
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous grains
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale (of individual grains); Color: Tan, beige, or yellowish; Luster: Dull to vitreous grains; Structure: Granular/clastic; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed by the accumulation and cementation of sand-sized mineral grains, mostly quartz. This occurs in environments like beaches, deserts, and river floodplains through the process of lithification over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used as a construction material for paving, building facades, and sculpture. In industry, it is a source of silica for glassmaking and an important reservoir rock for groundwater and petroleum.
Geological facts
Sandstone can preserve fossil footprints and ripple marks from ancient environments. It makes up approximately 20 to 25 percent of all sedimentary rocks on Earth.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its gritty, sand-like texture (feels like sandpaper). It is common in basin environments and canyon walls. Collectors look for unique banding (wonderstone) or fossil inclusions.
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