sedimentary
Sandstone / Weathered Chert
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) / Quartz-rich Clastic Rock
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: yellowish-brown, tan, to rusty brownish-gray; Luster: earthy, dull; Grain structure: fine to medium microcrystalline or clastic; Cleavage: none, uneven to sub-conchoidal fracture.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- yellowish-brown, tan, to rusty brownish-gray
- Luster
- earthy, dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: yellowish-brown, tan, to rusty brownish-gray; Luster: earthy, dull; Grain structure: fine to medium microcrystalline or clastic; Cleavage: none, uneven to sub-conchoidal fracture.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accumulation and cementation of sand-sized mineral grains or silica precipitation in shallow marine, fluvial, or weathering terrestrial environments. Weathered iron oxides give it its characteristic tan to brown tint.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in construction, road base materials, landscaping gravel, and as educational earth science samples.
Geological facts
Weathered rocks with yellow-brown coatings often derive their color from limonite or goethite (iron oxyhydroxide) weathering products forming over millions of years.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its grainy or microcrystalline texture, earthy tan color, and hardness that scratches steel. Commonly found in riverbeds, sedimentary basins, and gravel deposits worldwide.
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