sedimentary

Sandstone (Quartz-rich)

Arenite (SiO2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Tan, brown, or reddish-brown; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal Structure: Clastic (sand grains); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture within grains); Specific Gravity: 2.2–2.8

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale
Color: Tan, brown, or reddish-brown
Luster: Dull/Earthy

Identified April 4, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the accumulation and cementation of sand-sized mineral grains or rock fragments. Typically deposited in riverbeds, deserts, or coastal environments over millions of years (clastic sedimentation).

Uses & applications

Used extensively in construction as a building material, paving, and decorative stone. Also used for grindstones and in the manufacturing of glass when high in quartz purity.

Geological facts

Sandstone acts as a natural aquifer, holding vast amounts of groundwater or petroleum in its pore spaces. The famous city of Petra is carved entirely out of sandstone.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its gritty, sandpaper-like texture and visible sedimentary layers (bedding). It is extremely common worldwide in sedimentary basins and exposed cliff faces.