sedimentary

Quartz Arenite / Sandstone

Quartz sandstone (SiO2 rich clastic sedimentary rock)

Hardness: 7 (for quartz grains); Color: White, off-white, light tan or yellowish brown; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Clastic texture composed of cemented rounded to sub-rounded quartz grains; Cleavage: None (fractures across grains); Specific Gravity: ~2.65

Hardness: 7 (for quartz grains)
Color: White, off-white, light tan or yellowish brown
Luster: Vitreous to dull

Identified August 1, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the accumulation, compaction, and cementation (lithification) of sand-sized quartz grains, typically in high-energy environments such as deserts, beaches, or river dunes over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Used in construction, production of glass, manufacturing of silicon, refractory materials, and as dimension stone.

Geological facts

Quartz arenites consist of more than 90% quartz grains, making them extremely mature sedimentary rocks because less durable minerals like feldspars have been weathered away during long transport.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its gritty texture like sandpaper, light color, and the inability of quartz grains to be scratched by a steel knife. Commonly found worldwide in sedimentary basins and ancient beach deposits.

Other sedimentary specimens

See all

Sandstone or Siltstone

Arenite (if sandstone)

Sedimentary

Quartz pebble

Silicon dioxide (SiO2)

sedimentary

Fossiliferous Concretion

Septarian Concretion containing Brachiopods/Crinoids

fossil

Generic Pebble / Rock Fragment

Lithic fragment / Weathered rock

sedimentary

Sedimentary Sandstone

Arenite (Sedimentary Rock)

sedimentary

Banded Siltstone / Mudstone Pebble

Siltstone / Argillite

sedimentary