sedimentary
Red Sandstone
Clastic sedimentary rock (primarily Quartz with Hematite)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Red/Brownish-red; Luster: Dull/Matte; Crystal structure: Clastic/Granular; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
- Hardness
- 6-7 (Mohs scale)
- Color
- Red/Brownish-red
- Luster
- Dull/Matte
Identified More sedimentary →
Explore Red Sandstone in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Red/Brownish-red; Luster: Dull/Matte; Crystal structure: Clastic/Granular; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accumulation and cementation of sand-sized minerals or rock grains. The red color indicates the presence of iron oxide (hematite) and suggests an arid environment during deposition.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in construction as a building stone and for decorative paving. Small pebbles are often used in landscaping or as aquarium decor.
Geological facts
The famous Red Rocks Amphitheatre and many iconic formations in the American Southwest are composed of this rock. Its color captures the oxidation states of ancient earth surface environments.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its gritty texture (feels like sandpaper) and its visible distinct sand grains. Commonly found in riverbeds, deserts, and coastal cliffs.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Fossil-bearing concretion, possibly containing a fossil shell or other organic inclusion
Calcareous concretion; exact fossil and host-rock composition are not identifiable from the image
fossil
Fossiliferous Sedimentary Rock
Sedimentary limestone with invertebrate fossil imprint
fossil
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite
sedimentary
Shale
Shale (clastic sedimentary rock)
sedimentary
Shale (or Mudstone/Siltstone)
Sedimentary Mudrock (SiO2, Al2O3 base with clay minerals)
sedimentary