sedimentary
Sandstone (Quartzose Sandstone)
Sandstone (SiO2 dominant composition)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: light tan, grey, buff, and reddish-brown iron staining; Luster: earthy to dull; Texture: medium-grained, rough gritty feel, visible faint bedding planes.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- light tan, grey, buff, and reddish-brown iron staining
- Luster
- earthy to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: light tan, grey, buff, and reddish-brown iron staining; Luster: earthy to dull; Texture: medium-grained, rough gritty feel, visible faint bedding planes.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accumulation, compaction, and cementation of mineral particles or rock fragments, primarily quartz grains deposited in ancient river, lake, or desert environments.
Uses & applications
Widely used as a building material, paving stone, landscape stone, and crushed aggregate for construction.
Geological facts
Sandstone rocks often preserve sedimentary structures like cross-bedding and ripple marks, offering valuable clues about ancient environments and water or wind currents.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its sandy, sandpaper-like surface feel and visible quartz grain texture. Commonly found in riverbeds, cliffs, quarries, and landscape features throughout North America and worldwide.
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