sedimentary
Sandstone
Clastic Sedimentary Rock (primarily SiO2)
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale); Color: tan, yellow, or light brown; Luster: dull/earthy; Crystal structure: granular/clastic; Cleavage: none; Specific gravity: 2.2-2.8
- Hardness
- 6-7 (Mohs scale)
- Color
- tan, yellow, or light brown
- Luster
- dull/earthy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale); Color: tan, yellow, or light brown; Luster: dull/earthy; Crystal structure: granular/clastic; Cleavage: none; Specific gravity: 2.2-2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accumulation and cementation of mineral particles or rock fragments (clasts) the size of sand. These particles are typically deposited by water, wind, or ice in environments like deserts, riverbeds, and shorelines.
Uses & applications
Commonly used as a building material, in decorative masonry, as a reservoir for oil and natural gas, and as a source of glass/silica sand in industry.
Geological facts
Sandstone makes up approximately 20% of all sedimentary rocks on Earth. Famous landmarks like the Grand Canyon and the Treasury at Petra are carved from or composed of massive sandstone layers.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its gritty, sandpaper-like texture and visible sand grains. It react with acids only if there is a calcitic cement. Found globally in basins and mountainous regions where erosion occurs.
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