sedimentary
Sandstone (Ferruginous)
Arenite with Iron Oxide cement
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs); Color: Brownish-red to tan; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal Structure: Clastic grains (0.06 to 2 mm); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
- Hardness
- 6-7 (Mohs)
- Color
- Brownish-red to tan
- Luster
- Dull/Earthy
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: Brownish-red to tan; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal Structure: Clastic grains (0.06 to 2 mm); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accumulation of sand-sized mineral particles or rock fragments, subsequently lithified by high pressure and chemical cementation, often in desert or river environments.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in construction as a building stone or road base; also used in glass manufacturing if high in quartz.
Geological facts
Sandstone layers can act as major aquifers or reservoirs for petroleum and natural gas due to their porosity.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its gritty, sandpaper-like feel and visible grains. Found worldwide in sedimentary basins and canyons.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Cone-in-cone structure (Limestone)
Cone-in-cone structure (Secondary Sedimentary Structure)
sedimentary
Chert Breccia
Brecciated Chert (Microcrystalline Silica)
sedimentary
Sandstone Grain
Clastic Sedimentary Rock Grain (SiO2 dominated)
sedimentary
Shale or Slaty Mudstone
Argillaceous sedimentary rock
sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (primarily SiO2)
sedimentary