sedimentary
Sandstone nugget
Arenite (primarily Quartz SiO2)
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Tan, beige, light brown; Luster: Dull to earthy; Crystal structure: Granular/Clastic; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
- Hardness
- 6-7 (Mohs scale)
- Color
- Tan, beige, light brown
- Luster
- Dull to earthy
Identified More sedimentary →
Explore Sandstone nugget in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Tan, beige, light brown; Luster: Dull to earthy; Crystal structure: Granular/Clastic; 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 in river beds, deserts, or marine environments over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in construction, road base, and as a material for glass manufacturing if high in quartz; also popular in aquascaping and landscaping.
Geological facts
Sandstone represents about 20% of all sedimentary rocks on Earth. Because of its porosity, it is an important reservoir for groundwater and petroleum.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its gritty, sandpaper-like feel and visible grains. Often found in areas with historical water flow or ancient sand dunes.
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