sedimentary
Sandstone (likely Arkosic or Lithic Sandstone)
Arenite (composed primarily of SiO2 with various lithic fragments)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale (grains) but can crumble easily; Color: Tan, brownish-yellow, beige; Luster: Dull or earthy; Crystal structure: Clastic (visible grains); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale (grains) but can crumble easily
- Color
- Tan, brownish-yellow, beige
- Luster
- Dull or earthy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale (grains) but can crumble easily; Color: Tan, brownish-yellow, beige; Luster: Dull or earthy; Crystal structure: Clastic (visible grains); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accumulation and cementation of sand-sized mineral grains or rock fragments. Typically deposited in riverbeds, deserts, or coastal environments. Age can range from Precambrian to Holocene depending on the specific deposit.
Uses & applications
Used widely in construction as a building stone and for pavers. Gritty texture makes it useful for honing tools. Fine-grained varieties are used for architectural carvings.
Geological facts
Sandstone contains about 20% to 25% of all sedimentary rock on Earth. Large formations like the Grand Canyon are primarily composed of various layers of sandstone.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its 'sandpaper' feel and visible layers or bedding. Common in sedimentary basins worldwide. When testing in the field, it will not fizz with HCl unless it has a calcitic cement.
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Sandstone
Arenite (primarily SiO2)
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