sedimentary
Sandstone (likely Quartzose Sandstone)
Arenite (composed primarily of SiO2)
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale); Color: tan, buff, or light grey; Luster: dull/earthy; Crystal structure: granular/clastic; Cleavage: none; Specific gravity: approx. 2.2-2.8. Feels gritty like sandpaper.
- Hardness
- 6-7 (Mohs scale)
- Color
- tan, buff, or light grey
- 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 scale); Color: tan, buff, or light grey; Luster: dull/earthy; Crystal structure: granular/clastic; Cleavage: none; Specific gravity: approx. 2.2-2.8. Feels gritty like sandpaper.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accumulation and cementation of mineral particles or rock fragments (sand) over millions of years. This specific specimen appears water-worn, suggesting it was shaped in a riverbed or coastal environment.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in construction as a building material, road base, or decorative garden stone. Pure quartz sandstone is also used to make glass.
Geological facts
Sandstone accounts for roughly 20% of all sedimentary rocks on Earth. It is a major reservoir for groundwater and petroleum because of its porosity.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its distinctive 'sandpaper' texture. Common in basins and coastal regions. It will often leave a gritty residue if rubbed against a harder surface.
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