sedimentary

Sandstone (likely Arkosic or Lithic)

Clastic Sedimentary Rock (composed mostly of SiO2)

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale (grains) but can crumble; Color: Tan, beige, or grey with dark mineral inclusions; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal structure: Clastic/Granular texture; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.2 - 2.8

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale (grains) but can crumble
Color: Tan, beige, or grey with dark mineral inclusions
Luster: Dull/Earthy

Identified July 1, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the accumulation and cementation of sand-sized mineral grains or rock fragments. These typically form in river beds, beaches, or deserts where sediment is buried and pressurized over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Commonly used as a construction material (building stone), in road pavement, as a reservoir rock for oil and gas, and as a source of silica for glass making.

Geological facts

Sandstone is one of the most common sedimentary rocks on Earth. The famous red rocks of the Grand Canyon and the ancient city of Petra are primarily composed of sandstone.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its gritty, sandpaper-like feel and visible grains. Found globally in basins and coastal areas. Collectors look for unique banding (Liesegang rings) or fossils within the layers.

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Arenite (if sandstone)

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Cone-in-cone structure (Secondary Sedimentary Structure)

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Brecciated Chert (Microcrystalline Silica)

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Sandstone Grain

Clastic Sedimentary Rock Grain (SiO2 dominated)

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Shale or Slaty Mudstone

Argillaceous sedimentary rock

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Sandstone

Arenite (primarily SiO2)

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