sedimentary
Sandstone (Ferruginous)
Arenite (primarily SiO2 with iron oxide Fe2O3 cement)
Hardness: 6-7 (individual grains); Color: Tan, yellow, reddish-brown; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Texture: Granular, sandpaper-like feel; Structure: Clastic, showing fine laminations.
- Hardness
- 6-7 (individual grains)
- Color
- Tan, yellow, reddish-brown
- Luster
- Dull/Earthy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 (individual grains); Color: Tan, yellow, reddish-brown; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Texture: Granular, sandpaper-like feel; Structure: Clastic, showing fine laminations.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accumulation and cementation of sand-sized mineral grains or rock fragments. The reddish-yellow color indicates iron oxide (hematite or limonite) acting as the cementing agent. These typically form in river, desert, or marine environments.
Uses & applications
Commonly used as a building material, decorative stone, for grindstones, and as a reservoir rock for petroleum and groundwater.
Geological facts
Sandstone makes up about 20% to 25% of all sedimentary rocks on Earth. The Antelope Canyon in Arizona is a world-famous landform carved out of Navajo Sandstone.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its gritty 'sandpaper' texture and visible grains. It is extremely common in sedimentary basins worldwide. For collectors, look for cross-bedding or fossil inclusions.
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