sedimentary

Quartz Arenite / Sandstone

Quartz sandstone (SiO2 rich clastic sedimentary rock)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

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.