sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (Siliclastic sedimentary rock, primarily SiO2)
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale), Color: tan, yellow, or earthy brown, Luster: Dull/Earthy, Structure: Granular/Clastic with visible sand-sized grains, Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
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, yellow, or earthy brown, Luster: Dull/Earthy, Structure: Granular/Clastic with visible sand-sized grains, Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accumulation and cementation of sand-sized mineral grains or rock fragments (clasts) over millions of years, typically in desert, river, or coastal environments. Found in strata ranging from Precambrian to Holocene eras.
Uses & applications
Extensively used as a building material, road base, and in glass making (if high silica). In the energy sector, it acts as a reservoir rock for oil, natural gas, and groundwater.
Geological facts
Sandstone makes up about 10-25% of the sedimentary rocks on Earth. The vibrant colors in famous landmarks like the Grand Canyon or Petra are primarily due to iron oxides within the sandstone matrix.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its gritty texture (feels like sandpaper) and visible layering (bedding). It is found globally in sedimentary basins. Collectors often look for 'Liesegang rings' or fossil inclusions.
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