sedimentary
Sandstone or Mudstone
Sedimentary Rock (Sandstone/Mudstone)
Earthy luster, relatively soft to moderate hardness depending on cementation (Mohs 2-6), porous, typically tan, brown, or grayish-green. Exhibits clastic texture.
Identified More sedimentary →
Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Earthy luster, relatively soft to moderate hardness depending on cementation (Mohs 2-6), porous, typically tan, brown, or grayish-green. Exhibits clastic texture.
Formation & geological history
Formed by the accumulation and lithification of sand-sized grains or silty/clayey mud in environments such as rivers, lakes, deserts, or shallow marine settings over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Often used in construction, landscaping, and sometimes as a paving material if well-cemented. Historically used for building blocks.
Geological facts
Sedimentary rocks like this often contain fossils and provide significant clues about Earth's past environments, climates, and ecosystems.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its gritty feel (if sandstone) or smooth feel (if mudstone), layered appearance, and earthy colors. Commonly found in sedimentary basins worldwide.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (primarily SiO2)
sedimentary
Chert Breccia
Brecciated Chert (Microcrystalline Silica)
sedimentary
Sandstone Grain
Clastic Sedimentary Rock Grain (SiO2 dominated)
sedimentary
Shale or Slaty Mudstone
Argillaceous sedimentary rock
sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite
sedimentary