sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (SiO2 principal)
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Tan, brown, or gray; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal structure: Granular clastic; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.2-2.8
- Hardness
- 6-7 Mohs
- Color
- Tan, brown, or gray
- 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; Color: Tan, brown, or gray; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal structure: Granular clastic; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.2-2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed by the accumulation and lithification of sand-sized mineral grains or rock fragments, typically from ancient riverbeds, beaches, or desert dunes over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction, paving, landscaping, and as a raw material for glass manufacturing and filters.
Geological facts
Sandstone is highly porous and can serve as an important aquifer or reservoir for petroleum and natural gas. Some sandstones contain fossilized imprints of prehistoric life.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its gritty 'sandpaper' feel and visible grain structure. Commonly found in deserts, coastal regions, and sedimentary basins worldwide.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (primarily SiO2)
sedimentary
Sandstone Grain
Clastic Sedimentary Rock Grain (SiO2 dominated)
sedimentary
Chert Breccia
Brecciated Chert (Microcrystalline Silica)
sedimentary
Shale or Slaty Mudstone
Argillaceous sedimentary rock
sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite
sedimentary