sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (composed primarily of SiO2)
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale); Color: tan, yellow, or buff; Luster: dull to earthy; Crystal structure: clastic (sand grains); Cleavage: none; Specific gravity: 2.2 - 2.8.
- Hardness
- 6-7 (Mohs scale)
- Color
- tan, yellow, or buff
- Luster
- dull to 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, yellow, or buff; Luster: dull to earthy; Crystal structure: clastic (sand grains); Cleavage: none; Specific gravity: 2.2 - 2.8.
Formation & geological history
Formed by the accumulation and cementation of sand-sized mineral particles or rock fragments. Typically deposited in desert, river, or coastal environments over millions of years (Paleozoic to Cenozoic eras).
Uses & applications
Used widely in construction for paving, building facades, and grindstones. Also serves as an important reservoir for groundwater and petroleum.
Geological facts
Sandstone makes up about 10-25% of the sedimentary rocks on Earth. The iconic red rocks of the American Southwest, like those in the Grand Canyon, are famous examples of sandstone formations.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its gritty, sandpaper-like texture and visible sand grains. It is commonly found in sedimentary basins, riverbeds, and cliffs. Collectors look for unique banding or patterns like 'wonderstone'.
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