sedimentary
Brown Sandstone Pebble
Clastic Sandstone (SiO2 with iron oxides)
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
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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.
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