sedimentary
Banded Sandstone (Zebra Stone)
Arenite with Iron Oxide Banding (Liesegang rings)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Alternating bands of reddish-brown, tan, and cream; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal structure: Granular/Clastic; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Alternating bands of reddish-brown, tan, and cream
- 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 on Mohs scale; Color: Alternating bands of reddish-brown, tan, and cream; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal structure: Granular/Clastic; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accumulation and cementation of sand-sized mineral grains or rock fragments. The distinct banding (Liesegang rings) is caused by the rhythmic precipitation of iron oxides (hematite/goethite) within the porous stone by groundwater.
Uses & applications
Commonly used for decorative garden stones, cabochons for jewelry, paperweights, and educational specimens to demonstrate sedimentary layering.
Geological facts
While often called 'Zebra Stone', true Zebra Stone from Western Australia is much older (Precambrian), whereas general banded sandstone is found globally in various archaeological and geological strata.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its gritty texture and visible alternating color layers. Commonly found in arid or semi-arid regions and near ancient riverbeds. Tip: Look for the 'grainy' feel to distinguish it from banded jasper.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (primarily SiO2)
sedimentary
Chert Breccia
Brecciated Chert (Microcrystalline Silica)
sedimentary
Sandstone Grain
Clastic Sedimentary Rock Grain (SiO2 dominated)
sedimentary
Shale or Slaty Mudstone
Argillaceous sedimentary rock
sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite
sedimentary