sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs (depends on cementation); Color: Tan, beige, gray; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal structure: Clastic texture; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.2-2.8
- Hardness
- 6-7 Mohs (depends on cementation)
- Color
- Tan, beige, 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 Mohs (depends on cementation); Color: Tan, beige, gray; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal structure: Clastic texture; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.2-2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed from the accumulation and cementation of sand-sized mineral grains (usually quartz or feldspar) in environments like deserts, river beds, or beaches. It can range in age from Precambrian to Cenozoic.
Uses & applications
Commonly used as a building material, paving stone, and in the manufacturing of glass and grindstones.
Geological facts
Sandstone is one of the most common types of sedimentary rock and often preserves fossils or sedimentary structures like ripple marks and cross-bedding.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its gritty, sandpaper-like feel and visible sand grains. Found globally in canyon walls, cliffs, and quarries.
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