sedimentary

Sandstone

Arenite (composed primarily of SiO2)

Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Yellow, tan, or brown; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal structure: Clastic (grainy); Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.2 - 2.8.

Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale)
Color: Yellow, tan, or brown
Luster: Dull/Earthy

Identified March 1, 2026More sedimentary →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Yellow, tan, or brown; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal structure: Clastic (grainy); Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.2 - 2.8.

Formation & geological history

Formed through the accumulation of sand-sized mineral particles or rock fragments, which are then compacted and cemented together by minerals like silica, calcium carbonate, or iron oxide. They represent ancient riverbeds, beaches, or deserts.

Uses & applications

Used widely in construction as a building stone, in road base materials, and as an abrasive in industrial applications. Some varieties are used for garden landscaping and decorative wall cladding.

Geological facts

Sandstone makes up about 20-25% of all sedimentary rocks on Earth. The 'Wave' in Arizona and the city of Petra in Jordan are famous landmarks carved into or made from sandstone.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its gritty, sandpaper-to-the-touch texture. It can be found in sedimentary basins worldwide. Scratching it with a knife will often dislodge individual sand grains.