sedimentary
Red Sandstone Pebble
Sandstone (Quartzose/Feldspathic Sandstone)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: reddish-brown to pinkish-red due to iron oxide (hematite); Luster: dull to earthy; Texture: fine-grained, smooth rounded river pebble; Cleavage: none
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- reddish-brown to pinkish-red due to iron oxide (hematite)
- Luster
- dull to earthy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: reddish-brown to pinkish-red due to iron oxide (hematite); Luster: dull to earthy; Texture: fine-grained, smooth rounded river pebble; Cleavage: none
Formation & geological history
Formed by the deposition, compaction, and cementation of sand-sized grains of quartz and feldspar in desert, fluvial, or coastal environments. The pebble shape indicates transport and erosion by moving water in rivers or along shorelines.
Uses & applications
Commonly used as decorative landscape stone, river rock, aquarium gravel, or for crafting and painting stones.
Geological facts
The reddish hue comes from a thin coating of iron oxide (hematite) surrounding the individual quartz sand grains. Red sandstones form iconic landforms such as Sedona, Arizona, and Zion National Park.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its reddish color, gritty texture when scratched, and smooth, water-worn rounded shape. Widely found in riverbeds, lakeshores, and glacial deposits worldwide.
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