sedimentary

Sandstone (Iron-stained)

Sandstone (rich in Quartz and Hematite/Limonite coatings)

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale (due to quartz grains). Color: Reddish-brown, yellow-orange, and tan from iron oxides. Luster: Dull, earthy to vitreous on fresh breaks. Texture: Medium-grained, granular, sandpaper-like surface feel.

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale (due to quartz grains)
Color: Reddish-brown, yellow-orange, and tan from iron oxides
Luster: Dull, earthy to vitreous on fresh breaks

Identified July 23, 2026More sedimentary →

Explore Sandstone (Iron-stained) in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from the deposition and compaction of sand-sized mineral particles or rock fragments in river, beach, or desert environments, followed by cementation with silica, calcite, or iron oxides over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Widely used in construction, landscaping, flagstone paving, building facades, and decorative garden rockeries.

Geological facts

The reddish and orange hue is caused by the weathering and oxidation of iron-bearing minerals, essentially rusting the rock over time to create limonite and hematite coatings.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its gritty sandpaper texture, distinct visible layers, and rust-colored iron oxide staining. Commonly found in sedimentary basins, canyon walls, and river valleys worldwide.

Other sedimentary specimens

See all

Sandstone or Siltstone

Arenite (if sandstone)

Sedimentary

Sedimentary Sandstone

Arenite (Sedimentary Rock)

sedimentary

Fossiliferous Concretion

Septarian Concretion containing Brachiopods/Crinoids

fossil

Shale

Shale (clastic sedimentary rock)

sedimentary

Brown Sandstone (River Rock)

Arenite

sedimentary

Shale

Argillaceous sedimentary rock

sedimentary