sedimentary

Sandstone

Arenite

Hardness: 6-7 Mohs (governed by quartz grains); Color: Tan, brown, yellow, red, or grey; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal Structure: Clastic texture with sand-sized grains (0.06-2mm); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8.

Hardness: 6-7 Mohs (governed by quartz grains)
Color: Tan, brown, yellow, red, or grey
Luster: Dull/Earthy

Identified June 19, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from the accumulation and cementation of sand-sized grains of mineral, rock, or organic material. The grains are typically cemented by silica, calcium carbonate, or iron oxide. They form in environments like deserts, river deltas, or beaches.

Uses & applications

Widely used as a construction material (dimension stone), in glass manufacturing (if high silica), for paving/flooring, and as filtering media. It also serves as a major reservoir for groundwater and petroleum.

Geological facts

Sandstone makes up about 20-25% of all sedimentary rocks on Earth. The famous red rock formations of the American Southwest, like those in the Grand Canyon and Zion National Park, are primarily composed of sandstone.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its gritty, sandpaper-like feel and visible grains. It can be found globally in outcrop formations and riverbeds. Use a magnifying glass to see the individual rounded or angular sand grains.