sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Tan, brown, yellowish-orange; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal structure: Granular/Clastic; Cleavage: None/Fragmental; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
- Hardness
- 6-7 Mohs
- Color
- Tan, brown, 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 Mohs; Color: Tan, brown, yellowish-orange; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal structure: Granular/Clastic; Cleavage: None/Fragmental; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed by the accumulation and cementation of mineral particles or rock fragments (clasts) usually silicate-based. Deposits typically occur in deserts, riverbeds, and ocean basins over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a building material, paving stones, and for ornamental purposes. In industry, high-silica sandstone is used in glass manufacturing.
Geological facts
Sandstone makes up about 20% to 25% of all sedimentary rocks on Earth. Famous geological formations like the Grand Canyon are primarily composed of sandstone layers.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its gritty, sand-like texture when rubbed and visible layered bedding. It is found globally in regions with historical alluvial or desert environments.
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