sedimentary

Sandstone (Water-Worn Pebble)

Arenite / Quartzose Sandstone

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale (depends on cementing agent); Color: brownish-tan, buff, earthy beige; Luster: dull to earthy; Texture: clastic, medium-grained sand-sized particles with visible pitting and mechanical wear; Cleavage: none; Specific Gravity: ~2.2 - 2.8

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale (depends on cementing agent)
Color: brownish-tan, buff, earthy beige
Luster: dull to earthy

Identified November 15, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the accumulation, compaction, and cementation of mineral particles or rock fragments (predominantly quartz sand) in rivers, beaches, or desert dunes over millions of years, followed by alluvial or glacial rounding into a river pebble.

Uses & applications

Commonly used in construction as aggregate, paving stone, landscape gravel, building dimension stone, and for decorative garden displays.

Geological facts

Sandstone makes up about 20 to 25 percent of all sedimentary rocks on Earth. Its porosity makes it one of the most critical reservoir rocks for groundwater aquifers and hydrocarbons.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its gritty, sandpaper-like feel and visible quartz grains; river pebbles show smooth, tumbled edges and occasional impact fractures. Found abundantly in riverbeds, lakeshores, gravel pits, and sedimentary rock outcrops worldwide.