sedimentary

Brown Sandstone Pebble

Clastic Sandstone (SiO2 with iron oxides)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 6-7 (on Mohs scale); Color: Rusty brown to tan; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal structure: Clastic (sand-sized grains); Texture: Gritty like sandpaper.

Hardness: 6-7 (on Mohs scale)
Color: Rusty brown to tan
Luster: Dull/Earthy

Identified July 4, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6-7 (on Mohs scale); Color: Rusty brown to tan; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal structure: Clastic (sand-sized grains); Texture: Gritty like sandpaper.

Formation & geological history

Formed from the accumulation and cementation of sand-sized mineral grains or rock fragments. The brown color indicates iron oxide (hematite/limonite) cement or staining resulting from oxidation over geological time.

Uses & applications

Used primarily in construction (as aggregate), landscaping, and sometimes for aquifer filtration. Compact pebbles are also used as decorative garden stones.

Geological facts

Sandstone makes up about 10-20% of the Earth's sedimentary rocks. Many sandstone formations are great reservoirs for groundwater and petroleum because of their porosity.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its gritty texture and visible sand grains. It common in riverbeds, glacial deposits, and coastal areas where water has rounded the edges over time.