sedimentary
Sandstone pebble
Sandstone (arenite / quartzarenite)
Hardness 6-7 on the Mohs scale (depends on cementing matrix), earthy to dull luster, granular sugary texture with visible sand grains, colors range from light brownish-tan to grey, non-porphyritic.
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Physical properties
Hardness 6-7 on the Mohs scale (depends on cementing matrix), earthy to dull luster, granular sugary texture with visible sand grains, colors range from light brownish-tan to grey, non-porphyritic.
Formation & geological history
Formed from accumulated sand grains (mostly quartz) that were eroded, transported by water or wind, deposited in riverbeds, beaches, or dunes, and subsequently compacted and cemented by silica, calcite, or iron oxide.
Uses & applications
Commonly used as construction aggregate, landscaping gravel, or raw material for building stone; small pebbles are often used in decorative river rock displays.
Geological facts
Sandstone makes up about 10-20% of all sedimentary rocks on Earth. Over geological time, heat and pressure can transform sandstone into the metamorphic rock quartzite.
Field identification & locations
Look for a distinctive 'sandpaper' texture and individual sand grains cemented together; often found smoothed and rounded in stream beds, rivers, and coastal beaches.
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