sedimentary
Sandstone (Ferruginous)
Arenite (primarily SiO2 with iron oxide cement)
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale for grains); Color: Tan, yellow, brownish-orange; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal structure: Clastic/Granular; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.2-2.8
- Hardness
- 6-7 (Mohs scale for grains)
- Color
- Tan, yellow, brownish-orange
- 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 for grains); Color: Tan, yellow, brownish-orange; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal structure: Clastic/Granular; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.2-2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accumulation and cementation of sand-sized mineral grains, primarily quartz. The brownish-yellow color suggests iron oxide (limonite or hematite) acting as a cementing agent. These rocks can form in deserts, riverbeds, or marine environments over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Used widely in construction (building stone, paving), glass manufacturing (if high silica), and as a reservoir rock for oil and natural gas.
Geological facts
Sandstone constitutes about 20-25% of all sedimentary rocks on Earth. The famous red rock formations in Sedona, Arizona, and the Grand Canyon are primarily types of sandstone colored by iron oxidation.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its gritty, sandpaper-like texture and visible sand grains. It usually feels rough to the touch and can be scratched with a steel blade depending on the strength of the cement. Found globally in basins and coastal regions.
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