sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (primarily Quartz-rich sedimentary rock)
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale), Color: tan/brownish-red due to iron oxide, Luster: dull/earthy, Crystal structure: clastic texture with sand-sized grains, Specific gravity: 2.2 to 2.8.
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/brownish-red due to iron oxide, Luster: dull/earthy, Crystal structure: clastic texture with sand-sized grains, Specific gravity: 2.2 to 2.8.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accumulation and cementation of sand-sized mineral grains or rock fragments, typically in environments like deserts, river deltas, or beaches. This specimen shows a weathered, rounded exterior suggesting fluvial or eolian erosion.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction for flagstone, building facades, and paving. Also used as a reservoir rock for oil and gas or as an aquifer for water storage.
Geological facts
Sandstone makes up about 20% of all sedimentary rocks on Earth. The famous red rocks of Sedona, Arizona, and the Grand Canyon are primarily composed of various layers of sandstone.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its gritty texture (feels like sandpaper) and visible sand grains. It is commonly found in sedimentary basins and along canyons or coastlines.
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