sedimentary
Sandstone (Ferruginous)
Sandstone (SiO2 with FeO(OH) cementing)
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale), Color: Tan to reddish-brown, Luster: Dull or earthy, Crystal structure: Clastic (detrital grains), Cleavage: None, Specific gravity: 2.2-2.8
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale), Color: Tan to reddish-brown, Luster: Dull or earthy, Crystal structure: Clastic (detrital grains), Cleavage: None, Specific gravity: 2.2-2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accumulation of sand-sized mineral particles or rock fragments, cemented together by pressure and geological fluids over millions of years, often in ancient riverbeds, deserts, or coastal environments.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in construction as building stone, as a source for glass-making sand, and frequently keeps aquifers for groundwater storage.
Geological facts
Sandstone makes up about 10-25% of the sedimentary rocks in the Earth's crust. Famously, the city of Petra in Jordan is carved directly into massive sandstone cliffs.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its gritty texture (feels like sandpaper) and visible layering. It is found globally across all continents where sedimentary basins exist.
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Brown Sandstone (River Rock)
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Cone-in-cone structure (Limestone)
Cone-in-cone structure (Secondary Sedimentary Structure)
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Sandstone
Arenite (primarily SiO2)
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Sandstone Grain
Clastic Sedimentary Rock Grain (SiO2 dominated)
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