sedimentary
Sandstone (Ferruginous)
Arenite (Siliclastic Sedimentary Rock)
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale), Color: tan with red/purple iron oxide banding, Luster: dull to earthy, Texture: clastic/granular (sand-sized grains), No cleavage, Porosity can be high.
Identified More sedimentary →
Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale), Color: tan with red/purple iron oxide banding, Luster: dull to earthy, Texture: clastic/granular (sand-sized grains), No cleavage, Porosity can be high.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accumulation and cementation of sand-sized mineral grains or rock fragments, typically in deserts, riverbeds, or coastal environments. The reddish-purple staining indicates oxidation of iron minerals (hematite/goethite) within the rock matrix.
Uses & applications
Used widely as a construction material, dimension stone for masonry, paving, and occasionally for artistic sculpture and home landscaping.
Geological facts
Sandstone acts as a natural aquifer, filtering water and storing oil and gas due to its porous nature. The distinctive banding seen here is often referred to as Liesegang rings or iron-staining.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its gritty texture (feels like sandpaper) and visible layering or banding. Commonly found in large sedimentary basins and outcrops 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