sedimentary

Sandstone

Arenite (composed primarily of SiO2)

Hardness: 6-7 (on Mohs scale if quartz-rich); Color: Tan, brown, or grayish; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal structure: Granular/Clastic; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8

Hardness: 6-7 (on Mohs scale if quartz-rich)
Color: Tan, brown, or grayish
Luster: Dull/Earthy

Identified April 27, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6-7 (on Mohs scale if quartz-rich); Color: Tan, brown, or grayish; 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 (sand) over millions of years in environments like beaches, deserts, or river deltas.

Uses & applications

Commonly used as a building material, in road construction, for making grindstones, and as a reservoir rock for oil and natural gas.

Geological facts

Sandstone accounts for roughly 20% of all sedimentary rocks on Earth. The famous red rocks of the Grand Canyon and Petra in Jordan are primarily made of sandstone.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinctive 'sandpaper' feel and visible grains. It is extremely common worldwide and often found in bedded layers or outcropping cliffs.