sedimentary

Sandstone (with Feldspathic/Arkose qualities)

Arenite (primarily SiO2 with KAlSi3O8 components)

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Tan, beige, or brownish-grey; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal structure: Clastic (granular texture); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture possible in grains); Specific gravity: 2.2–2.8

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale
Color: Tan, beige, or brownish-grey
Luster: Dull/Earthy

Identified March 23, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the accumulation, compaction, and cementation of sand-sized mineral grains or rock fragments. Typically deposited in river beds, deserts, or marine environments. Age can range from Precambrian to Holocene.

Uses & applications

Commonly used as a building material, paving stone, and in the manufacturing of glass. High-purity silica sandstone is used for hydraulic fracturing in the oil industry.

Geological facts

Sandstone makes up about 20% of all sedimentary rocks on Earth. The famous red rocks of the Grand Canyon and the 'Rose Red City' of Petra are primarily composed of sandstone.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its 'sandpaper' feel and visible grains. Often displays bedding planes or cross-bedding. Common in the Colorado Plateau (USA), Sahara Desert, and various mountain ranges worldwide.

Other sedimentary specimens

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Sandstone or Siltstone

Arenite (if sandstone)

Sedimentary

Sandstone

Arenite (primarily SiO2)

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Shale or Slaty Mudstone

Argillaceous sedimentary rock

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Chert Breccia

Brecciated Chert (Microcrystalline Silica)

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Sandstone (Quartz-rich)

Arenite (SiO2)

sedimentary

Sandstone (with man-made markings)

Arenite (composed primarily of Quartz, SiO2)

sedimentary