Sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite
Hardness: 6-7 on the Mohs scale (depends on the cementing material). Color: Can be tan, brown, yellow, red, gray, pink, white, or black. Luster: Dull. Crystal structure: Clastic (composed of fragments). Cleavage: None. Specific gravity: 2.2-2.8.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on the Mohs scale (depends on the cementing material)
- Color
- Can be tan, brown, yellow, red, gray, pink, white, or black
- Luster
- Dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on the Mohs scale (depends on the cementing material). Color: Can be tan, brown, yellow, red, gray, pink, white, or black. Luster: Dull. Crystal structure: Clastic (composed of fragments). Cleavage: None. Specific gravity: 2.2-2.8.
Formation & geological history
Formed from sand grains (quartz or feldspar) deposited by wind or water, which are then compacted and cemented over millions of years by minerals like silica, calcium carbonate, or iron oxide.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in construction as building stones, paving stones, and for architectural features. Also used as an aquifer for groundwater and a reservoir for oil and natural gas.
Geological facts
Sandstone is one of the most common sedimentary rocks and forms many notable geological formations worldwide, such as the Grand Canyon in the USA and Uluru in Australia.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its sandy, granular texture; individual grains can often be seen with the naked eye. Commonly found in environments like ancient beaches, deserts, and riverbeds.
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