sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (predominantly SiO2 quartz grains)
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs); Color: Tan, brown, or reddish; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Structure: Clastic, fine to medium-grained; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture occasionally present in grains); Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
- Hardness
- 6-7 (Mohs)
- Color
- Tan, brown, or reddish
- Luster
- Dull/Earthy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs); Color: Tan, brown, or reddish; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Structure: Clastic, fine to medium-grained; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture occasionally present in grains); Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed by the accumulation and cementation of sand-sized mineral particles or rock fragments over millions of years, often in desert, river, or coastal environments. Identification as a sedimentary rock implies lithification under pressure.
Uses & applications
Widely used as a building material, road base, for grindstones, and in the manufacturing of glass and chemicals. Due to high porosity, it often acts as an aquifer for water or a reservoir for oil and gas.
Geological facts
Sandstone represents about 20% of all sedimentary rocks on Earth. The famous Red Rocks Amphitheatre and many ancient structures like Petra are carved into or built from sandstone layers.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its gritty texture (feels like sandpaper) and visible sand grains. It is extremely common globally in basins and mountainous regions. For collectors, look for ripple marks or cross-bedding.
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