sedimentary

Sandstone (Quartzose Sandstone)

Clastic sedimentary rock (primarily SiO2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale (due to quartz); Color: Tan, beige, or light grey; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal Structure: Clastic (visible sand-sized grains); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.3–2.4

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale (due to quartz)
Color: Tan, beige, or light grey
Luster: Dull/Earthy

Identified March 23, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale (due to quartz); Color: Tan, beige, or light grey; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal Structure: Clastic (visible sand-sized grains); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.3–2.4

Formation & geological history

Formed through the accumulation and cementation of mineral particles or rock fragments (0.0625 to 2 mm in size). This specific rounded specimen indicates transport and erosion by water (alluvial/river) or wave action, smoothing the edges over hundreds to thousands of years.

Uses & applications

Used widely in construction as a building material, for paving stones, for glass manufacturing (if high silica), and as a reservoir rock for oil and natural gas.

Geological facts

Sandstone makes up about 20-25% of all sedimentary rocks on Earth. Famous formations include the Antelope Canyon in Arizona and the sandstone used to build the White House in Washington, D.C.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its gritty, sandpaper-like texture and visible grains. Often found in riverbeds, beaches, and desert environments. For collectors, look for unique patterns like cross-bedding or fossils contained within.