sedimentary
Red Sandstone
Sandstone (Quartz Arenite with Iron Oxide)
Hardness: 6-7 (individual grains); Color: Reddish-brown to tan; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Structure: Clastic; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
- Hardness
- 6-7 (individual grains)
- Color
- Reddish-brown to tan
- Luster
- Dull/Earthy
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 (individual grains); Color: Reddish-brown to tan; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Structure: Clastic; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accumulation and cementation of sand-sized grains of mineral or rock fragments. The red color is caused by the oxidation of iron minerals (hematite). Commonly formed in arid desert environments or river deltas.
Uses & applications
Construction material, decorative landscaping, historical building stone, and occasionally used in abrasive manufacturing.
Geological facts
Red sandstone is responsible for the famous landscapes of the American Southwest, such as the Grand Canyon and Zion National Park. It often preserves ripple marks and cross-bedding from ancient winds and waters.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its gritty, sandpaper-like texture and its visible sand grains. Found globally in sedimentary basins. Collectors often look for pieces with interesting layering or fossils.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Sedimentary Sandstone
Arenite (Sedimentary Rock)
sedimentary
Fossiliferous Concretion
Septarian Concretion containing Brachiopods/Crinoids
fossil
Shale
Shale (clastic sedimentary rock)
sedimentary
Brown Sandstone (River Rock)
Arenite
sedimentary
Shale
Argillaceous sedimentary rock
sedimentary