sedimentary
Sandstone (Ferruginous)
Arenite (SiO2 based with Fe2O3 banding)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 6-7 (Mohs), Color: Tan to reddish-brown, Luster: Dull/Earthy, Grainy texture, displays iron oxide (limonite/hematite) banding, Porous structure.
Identified More sedimentary →
Explore Sandstone (Ferruginous) in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs), Color: Tan to reddish-brown, Luster: Dull/Earthy, Grainy texture, displays iron oxide (limonite/hematite) banding, Porous structure.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accumulation and cementation of sand-sized mineral grains, primarily quartz. The dark banding is a result of iron-rich mineral deposition during diagenesis or groundwater movement.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in construction as building stone, pavers, and decorative landscaping. Also serves as a primary reservoir rock for oil, gas, and groundwater.
Geological facts
Sandstone makes up about 10-20% of the Earth's sedimentary rocks. The curved dark lines are often called Liesegang rings or chemical precipitate bands.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its gritty 'sandpaper' feel and visible grain structure. Look for bedding planes and chemical staining in riverbeds or outcrops.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Fossiliferous Sedimentary Rock
Sedimentary limestone with invertebrate fossil imprint
fossil
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Quartz pebble
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
sedimentary
Generic Pebble / Rock Fragment
Lithic fragment / Weathered rock
sedimentary
Sedimentary Sandstone
Arenite (Sedimentary Rock)
sedimentary
Shale (or Mudstone/Siltstone)
Sedimentary Mudrock (SiO2, Al2O3 base with clay minerals)
sedimentary