sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (SiO2 principal component)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Tan, brown, or grey; Luster: Dull or earthy; Crystal structure: Clastic (grainy); Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.2-2.8
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Tan, brown, or grey
- Luster
- Dull or earthy
Identified More sedimentary →
Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Tan, brown, or grey; Luster: Dull or earthy; Crystal structure: Clastic (grainy); Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.2-2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accumulation and lithification of sand-sized mineral grains (usually quartz or feldspar) in desert, river, or coastal environments. This specimen shows distinct bedding planes or laminations.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction as a building stone (flagstone), in the manufacturing of glass, and as a reservoir rock for oil and gas.
Geological facts
Sandstone can preserve fossil footprints and ripple marks from ancient water currents. It is the primary component of many famous geological wonders like the Grand Canyon.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its gritty, abrasive texture (like sandpaper) and visible layers. It is ubiquitous in sedimentary basins worldwide.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Shale or Slaty Mudstone
Argillaceous sedimentary rock
sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (primarily SiO2)
sedimentary
Chert Breccia
Brecciated Chert (Microcrystalline Silica)
sedimentary
Sandstone (Quartz-rich)
Arenite (SiO2)
sedimentary
Sandstone (with man-made markings)
Arenite (composed primarily of Quartz, SiO2)
sedimentary