sedimentary
Limonitic Sandstone with Inclusion
Limonitic Quartz Sandstone (primarily SiO2 with FeO(OH)·nH2O)
Hardness: 6-7 (quartz matrix), Color: Yellow-brown to tan (due to iron oxide), Luster: Dull/Earthy, Crystal Structure: Granular/Clastic, Cleavage: None
Identified More sedimentary →
Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 (quartz matrix), Color: Yellow-brown to tan (due to iron oxide), Luster: Dull/Earthy, Crystal Structure: Granular/Clastic, Cleavage: None
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accumulation and cementation of sand-sized mineral grains or rock fragments. The yellow tint is caused by limonite staining during lithification or secondary weathering in fluvial or marine environments.
Uses & applications
Common sandstone is used in construction as building stone or aggregate. This specific specimen is of interest primarily as a decorative garden stone or a geological curiosity for collectors.
Geological facts
Sandstone makes up about 20% of all sedimentary rocks on Earth. The 'pocket' or indentation in this specimen may have formed from the weathering out of a softer mineral nodule or a biological trace like a fossil fragment.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its gritty texture (feels like sandpaper) and the yellowish 'rust' color of iron oxide. Commonly found in riverbeds, cliffs, and desert environments worldwide.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (primarily SiO2)
sedimentary
Shale or Slaty Mudstone
Argillaceous sedimentary rock
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