sedimentary
Sandstone (Quartzose)
Arenite
Hardness: 6-7 (individual quartz grains); Color: Tan, beige, or light brown; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Texture: Clastic, medium-grained (sand-like feel); Composition: Primarily quartz grains with silica or calcite cement.
- Hardness
- 6-7 (individual quartz grains)
- Color
- Tan, beige, or light brown
- Luster
- Dull/Earthy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 (individual quartz grains); Color: Tan, beige, or light brown; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Texture: Clastic, medium-grained (sand-like feel); Composition: Primarily quartz grains with silica or calcite cement.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the accumulation and lithification of sand-sized mineral grains or rock fragments. Typically deposited in river beds, beaches, or desert environments during various geological eras from the Precambrian to present.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction as a building stone and paving material; also used in glass manufacturing if the quartz purity is high.
Geological facts
Sandstone layers can capture a record of Earth's history, often preserving ripple marks, cross-bedding from ancient dunes, or trace fossils.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its gritty texture (feels like sandpaper) and visible layers of sediment. Common in the Colorado Plateau, USA, and various canyonlands globally.
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