sedimentary
Sandstone (likely Graywacke or Lithic Sandstone)
Clastic Sedimentary Rock
Hardness: 6-7 (on Mohs scale); Color: Gray to brownish-gray; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal structure: Granular/Clastic; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.2-2.8
- Hardness
- 6-7 (on Mohs scale)
- Color
- Gray to brownish-gray
- Luster
- Dull/Earthy
Identified More sedimentary →
Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 (on Mohs scale); Color: Gray to brownish-gray; 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 sand-sized mineral grains or rock fragments. Typically deposited in riverbeds, deltas, or ocean basins, these rocks can range from hundreds of millions to just few million years old.
Uses & applications
Commonly used as a building material, paving stones, and road base construction. In geology, it acts as an important reservoir for oil, gas, and groundwater.
Geological facts
Sandstone makes up about 20-25% of all sedimentary rocks on Earth. The famous red rocks of the Grand Canyon are primarily composed of various sandstone layers.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its gritty texture (feels like sandpaper) and visible grains. Often found in layered outcrops. Collectors look for unique banding or fossil inclusions.
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