sedimentary
Glauconitic Sandstone
Glauconitic Sandstone with high Glauconite concentration ((K,Na)(Fe3+,Al,Mg)2(Si,Al)4O10(OH)2)
Hardness: 2-3 (glauconite) to 7 (quartz matrix); Color: dull green to grey-green; Luster: earthy to pearly; Structure: granular, often crumbly; Specific Gravity: 2.4-2.9
- Hardness
- 2-3 (glauconite) to 7 (quartz matrix)
- Color
- dull green to grey-green
- Luster
- earthy to pearly
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Physical properties
Hardness: 2-3 (glauconite) to 7 (quartz matrix); Color: dull green to grey-green; Luster: earthy to pearly; Structure: granular, often crumbly; Specific Gravity: 2.4-2.9
Formation & geological history
Formed in marine environments slow sedimentation rates during the Cambrian to Cenozoic eras, typically in 'greensand' deposits through the alteration of mica and organic matter in seawater.
Uses & applications
Used in water treatment as a natural ion exchanger (glauconite), as a slow-release soil fertilizer for potash, and historically as a green pigment for paints.
Geological facts
Commonly referred to as 'Greensand,' this rock is a vital indicator of ancient marine shelf environments and is frequently used by geologists for stratigraphic dating.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive olive-green color and coarse, sandy texture that rubs off easily. Found in coastal regions like the Atlantic Coastal Plain of the USA and parts of the UK.
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