sedimentary
Sandstone (Pebble)
Sandstone (SiO2 dominated clastic sedimentary rock)
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale), Color: light greenish-grey to tan, Luster: dull to earthy, Texture: fine-grained clastic sand-sized grains cemented together, Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
Identified More sedimentary →
Explore Sandstone (Pebble) 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: light greenish-grey to tan, Luster: dull to earthy, Texture: fine-grained clastic sand-sized grains cemented together, Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed by the accumulation and cementation of sand-sized mineral particles or rock fragments, typically in riverbeds, beaches, or desert environments. Over time, weathering and water action rounded this piece into a small pebble.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in construction, landscaping, road base, and as decorative gravel. Small pebbles are popular for terrariums and aquariums.
Geological facts
Sandstone accounts for roughly 20% of all sedimentary rocks on Earth. Its color varies widely based on impurities, with iron oxides creating red hues and chlorite or clay minerals giving greenish tints.
Field identification & locations
Identified in the field by its distinctive grainy sand-like texture felt with fingertips or seen under magnification. Abundant worldwide along riverbanks, lakeshores, beaches, and eroded sedimentary rock formations.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
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
Shale
Argillaceous sedimentary rock
sedimentary
Mudstone
Argillite / Siliciclastic sedimentary rock
sedimentary