sedimentary
Sandstone (Ferruginous)
Arenite with Iron oxide staining (SiO2 with Fe2O3)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale (due to quartz content); Color: Tan, cream, with yellow-brown iron staining; Luster: Dull to earthy; Structure: Granular/clastic; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture on individual grains).
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale (due to quartz content)
- Color
- Tan, cream, with yellow-brown iron staining
- Luster
- Dull to earthy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale (due to quartz content); Color: Tan, cream, with yellow-brown iron staining; Luster: Dull to earthy; Structure: Granular/clastic; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture on individual grains).
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accumulation and cementation of sand-sized silicate grains. The yellow/orange coloring is from the oxidation of iron-bearing minerals (limonite/hematite) within the rock cement.
Uses & applications
Primary uses are in construction as building stone, road base, and in the production of glass if purely quartz-based.
Geological facts
Sandstone makes up about 20-25% of all sedimentary rocks cycle. It often preserves fossils and primary structures like ripple marks or cross-bedding from ancient dunes or riverbeds.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its gritty 'sandpaper' texture and visible grains. Often found in outcrops where ancient water or wind systems deposited sediment.
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