sedimentary
Sandstone (with Iron Staining)
Clastic Sedimentary Rock (primarily Quartz with Limonite/Goethite staining)
Hardness: 6-7 (individual grains); Color: Tan to yellowish-orange; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal structure: Granular/Clastic; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
- Hardness
- 6-7 (individual grains)
- Color
- Tan to yellowish-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 (individual grains); Color: Tan to yellowish-orange; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal structure: Granular/Clastic; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed from the accumulation and cementation of sand-sized mineral particles or rock fragments. The orange-brown color is due to iron oxide staining (rust) from groundwater infiltration, common in terrestrial and near-shore environments over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Used primarily as a construction material, for road base, or as an ornamental stone in landscaping and aquariums.
Geological facts
Sandstone accounts for approximately 10% to 25% of the earth's sedimentary rock. The distinct bands of color, often called 'Liesegang rings,' are caused by the precipitation of chemicals from saturated fluids moving through the rock.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its gritty, sandpaper-like texture and visible sand grains. It is extremely common in desert environments and riverbeds worldwide. Collectors look for unique banding patterns.
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