sedimentary
Sandstone (Quartzose Sandstone)
Clastic Sedimentary Rock - Arenite
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale (due to quartz); Color: Tan, brown, reddish-yellow; Luster: Dull or earthy; Crystal structure: Granular/clastic; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.2-2.8
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale (due to quartz)
- Color
- Tan, brown, reddish-yellow
- Luster
- Dull or 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 (due to quartz); Color: Tan, brown, reddish-yellow; Luster: Dull or 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, primarily quartz. These typically form in river beds, beaches, or desert environments over millions of years through lithification.
Uses & applications
Commonly used as a building material, masonry, paving stone, and in the production of glass and industrial abrasives.
Geological facts
Sandstone is one of the most common types of sedimentary rock and often contains fossils. It serves as an important aquifer and reservoir for groundwater and petroleum products due to its porosity.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its gritty texture (feels like sandpaper) and visible sand grains. Found globally in sedimentary basins. Collectors often look for colorful banding or iron staining.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (primarily SiO2)
sedimentary
Shale or Slaty Mudstone
Argillaceous sedimentary rock
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