sedimentary
Sandstone (Pebble)
Sandstone (SiO2 with iron oxide impurities)
Mohs hardness 6-7, dull/earthy luster, fine to medium-grained sand texture, reddish-brown to tan color due to hematite/iron oxide staining, granular structure.
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness 6-7, dull/earthy luster, fine to medium-grained sand texture, reddish-brown to tan color due to hematite/iron oxide staining, granular structure.
Formation & geological history
Formed by the compaction and cementation of mineral particles or rock fragments (predominantly quartz) in riverbeds, beaches, or deserts over millions of years, later rounded by water erosion.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in construction, landscaping, decorative stone collecting, and as an abrasive in some industrial applications.
Geological facts
Red sandstone gets its distinct warm coloration from traces of hematite (iron oxide) coating the quartz grains during cementation.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctly grainy 'sandpaper-like' feel, rounded beach/river-pebble morphology, and reddish-tan hues. Extremely common along riverbanks, coasts, and sedimentary rock formations worldwide.
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