sedimentary

Sandstone (Pebble)

Sandstone (principally SiO2 with iron oxide impurities)

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Reddish-brown, tan, pink with darker iron/mineral inclusions; Luster: Dull to earthy, grainy surface texture; Structure: Clastic sedimentary composed of sand-sized quartz grains.

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale
Color: Reddish-brown, tan, pink with darker iron/mineral inclusions
Luster: Dull to earthy, grainy surface texture

Identified July 23, 2026More sedimentary →

Explore Sandstone (Pebble) 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 accumulation, compaction, and cementation of sand grains deposited in ancient rivers, lakes, or desert environments. Over time, silica, calcite, or iron oxides act as cement to bind the grains together.

Uses & applications

Used widely as construction material, flagstone, decorative landscaping stones, and tumbling/carving specimens for amateur rock collectors.

Geological facts

Sandstone often preserves ripple marks, cross-bedding, and ancient environmental clues. Red and pink sandstones get their characteristic color from hematite (iron oxide) staining the quartz grains.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its distinctive gritty feel, sand-like texture under magnification, and rounded beach/river-worn pebble shape. Commonly found along river beds, beaches, and eroded sedimentary rock formations 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