sedimentary

Banded Sandstone (Beach Pebble)

Quartz Arenite Sandstone

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Light beige, grey, and off-white with dark purplish-grey mineral bands; Luster: Dull to earthy; Texture: Fine-grained, smoothed by water erosion; Cleavage: None (conchoidal to uneven fracture).

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale
Luster: Dull to earthy

Identified July 23, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the deposition, compaction, and cementation of sand-sized mineral grains (mostly quartz) in marine or fluvial environments. The distinct dark bands represent mineral-rich layers (such as iron oxides or heavy minerals) deposited during changing depositional energy conditions.

Uses & applications

Commonly collected as beach stones or landscape rocks. High-purity sandstones are used in construction, paving, and glass manufacture.

Geological facts

The smooth, rounded shape indicates extensive natural tumbling and weathering by wave or river action. Sandstone comprises about 10 to 20 percent of Earth's sedimentary rocks.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its grainy, sand-like texture, pale coloration, and distinct mineral banding. Found worldwide along coastlines, riverbeds, and sedimentary rock formations.

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Sandstone or Siltstone

Arenite (if sandstone)

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