sedimentary

Red Sandstone Pebble

SiO2 with Fe2O3 (Quartz sandstone with hematite coating)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Reddish-brown to terracotta; Luster: Dull, earthy; Texture: Fine-grained, sandy feel; Cleavage: None

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale
Color: Reddish-brown to terracotta
Luster: Dull, earthy

Identified July 25, 2026More sedimentary →

Explore Red Sandstone Pebble in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Reddish-brown to terracotta; Luster: Dull, earthy; Texture: Fine-grained, sandy feel; Cleavage: None

Formation & geological history

Formed through the accumulation, compaction, and cementation of quartz grains in ancient desert sand dunes, alluvial fans, or river beds. The red color is caused by the oxidation of iron minerals (hematite) surrounding the sand grains.

Uses & applications

Commonly used in construction, landscaping, decorative stone work, and as a educational geology specimen. Rounded pebbles are popular in gravel walkways and riverbed aquascaping.

Geological facts

Red sandstones are responsible for some of the world's most famous natural landmarks, such as Zion National Park, Sedonas red rocks in Arizona, and Petra in Jordan.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its distinctive gritty sand-like texture and rust-red color. Highly abundant along beaches, river beds, and eroded sedimentary rock formations worldwide.