sedimentary
Sandstone (Glauconitic)
Glauconitic Quartz Sandstone (SiO2 + (K,Na)(Fe,Al,Mg)2(Si,Al)4O10(OH)2)
Hardness: 6-7 (individual grains); Color: Greenish-gray to dull green; Luster: Dull, earthy; Crystal structure: Clastic (granular); Cleavage: None (grains are rounded); Specific gravity: 2.5-2.8
- Hardness
- 6-7 (individual grains)
- Color
- Greenish-gray to dull green
- Luster
- Dull, earthy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 (individual grains); Color: Greenish-gray to dull green; Luster: Dull, earthy; Crystal structure: Clastic (granular); Cleavage: None (grains are rounded); Specific gravity: 2.5-2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accumulation of sand-sized grains of quartz and the green mineral glauconite in shallow marine environments. Glauconite typically indicates slow sedimentation rates in a marine setting.
Uses & applications
Used primarily as a building stone or for architectural highlights. Crushed versions are used in road base or as a source of potash in organic fertilizers if glauconite content is high.
Geological facts
The green color is derived from glauconite, a potassium-iron silicate mineral. This specific type of rock is often referred to as 'Greensand' when it is unconsolidated or loosely cemented.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its gritty texture and characteristic olive-green to grayish-green hue. It is often found in coastal regions or areas that were historically under shallow seas.
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