sedimentary

Sandstone

Arenite (primarily SiO2)

Hardness: 6-7 (on Mohs scale); Color: Tan, yellow, reddish-brown (iron-stained); Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal structure: Clastic (grain-based, mostly quartz); Specific gravity: 2.2-2.8

Hardness: 6-7 (on Mohs scale)
Color: Tan, yellow, reddish-brown (iron-stained)
Luster: Dull/Earthy

Identified March 22, 2026More sedimentary →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 6-7 (on Mohs scale); Color: Tan, yellow, reddish-brown (iron-stained); Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal structure: Clastic (grain-based, mostly quartz); Specific gravity: 2.2-2.8

Formation & geological history

Formed by the accumulation of sand-sized mineral particles or rock fragments, cemented together by silica, calcium carbonate, or iron oxide. Common in ancient riverbeds, desert dunes, and beaches over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Extensively used in construction (building facades, paving), glass manufacturing (if high silica content), and as a reservoir rock for oil and natural gas.

Geological facts

Sandstone can preserve fossilized footprints and ripple marks from ancient currents. It makes up famous geological formations like the Grand Canyon walls and Petra, the Jordanian city carved into red sandstone.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its gritty, sandpaper-like texture and visible layers (bedding planes). It is commonly found globally, particularly in arid regions and coastal cliffs. Collectors look for unique banding or fossil inclusions.