sedimentary

Sandstone Pebble

Sedimentary Clastic Rock (Quartz Arenite)

Hardness: 6-7 on the Mohs scale (due to quartz grains); Color: Varies from tan, brown, reddish, to gray; Luster: Dull or earthy; Crystal structure: Clastic (composed of cemented mineral particles or rock fragments rather than individual interlocking crystals);…

Hardness: 6-7 on the Mohs scale (due to quartz grains)
Color: Varies from tan, brown, reddish, to gray
Luster: Dull or earthy

Identified August 6, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from the accumulation, compaction, and cementation (lithification) of mineral particles or rock fragments, predominantly quartz sand, in environments like deserts, rivers, beaches, and shallow seas over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Commonly used in construction as building stone, paving material, and in the manufacturing of glass and concrete.

Geological facts

Sandstone formations often display distinct cross-bedding layers that reveal the direction of ancient winds or water currents. Famous monuments worldwide, including parts of Petra and various historic cathedrals, are carved from sandstone.

Field identification & locations

Can be identified in the field by its characteristic grainy texture like sandpaper and visible sand-sized grains. Found globally wherever ancient sedimentary basins exist.

Other sedimentary specimens

See all

Sandstone or Siltstone

Arenite (if sandstone)

Sedimentary

Fossiliferous Concretion

Septarian Concretion containing Brachiopods/Crinoids

fossil

Quartz pebble

Silicon dioxide (SiO2)

sedimentary

Generic Pebble / Rock Fragment

Lithic fragment / Weathered rock

sedimentary

Banded Siltstone / Mudstone Pebble

Siltstone / Argillite

sedimentary

Sedimentary Sandstone

Arenite (Sedimentary Rock)

sedimentary