sedimentary
Sandstone (Quartzose Sandstone / Feldspathic Sandstone)
SiO2 with minor impurities (Fe2O3, KAlSi3O8)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale depending on cementation. Color: Tan, yellowish-brown, light reddish-pink, buff. Luster: Dull, earthy, granitic texture. Grain structure: Clastic, medium-grained sand particles (0.0625 to 2 mm). Porous and abrasive texture.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale depending on cementation
- Color
- Tan, yellowish-brown, light reddish-pink, buff
- Luster
- Dull, earthy, granitic texture
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale depending on cementation. Color: Tan, yellowish-brown, light reddish-pink, buff. Luster: Dull, earthy, granitic texture. Grain structure: Clastic, medium-grained sand particles (0.0625 to 2 mm). Porous and abrasive texture.
Formation & geological history
Formed by the accumulation, compaction, and cementation of mineral particles or rock fragments (predominantly quartz and feldspar) in desert, river, deltaic, or beach environments over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used as a construction material, paving stone, decorative landscaping stone, dimension stone for architecture, and historically as grindstones for sharpening metal tools.
Geological facts
Sandstone accounts for roughly 10% to 20% of the Earth's sedimentary rocks. The red and yellow coloration in sandstone is usually caused by iron oxide minerals like hematite and goethite acting as a natural pigment.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its distinctive gritty feel, similar to sandpaper, and visible individual sand grains. Commonly found in canyon walls, river valleys, desert dunes, and sedimentary basins worldwide.
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