sedimentary

Sandstone (with Liesegang rings or joints)

Clastic Sedimentary Rock (primarily Quartz with Iron Oxide cement)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs); Color: Reddish-brown, tan, or pink; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Structure: Clastic, granular; Features: Geometric box-work patterns caused by mineral precipitation or jointing.

Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs)
Color: Reddish-brown, tan, or pink
Luster: Dull/Earthy

Identified April 22, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs); Color: Reddish-brown, tan, or pink; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Structure: Clastic, granular; Features: Geometric box-work patterns caused by mineral precipitation or jointing.

Formation & geological history

Formed through the lithification of wind-blown or water-borne sand. The geometric lines (often called boxwork or joints) are created by iron oxides concentrating along fractures or through fluid movement over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Used primarily for construction, paving stones, and landscaping. Striking patterns like these make it popular for decorative specimens and garden architecture.

Geological facts

The grid-like patterns often look man-made (mimicking ancient scripts or tiles), but are actually natural geometric fractures called joints that become stained with hematite or limonite.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by the visible sand grains and the orthogonal (90-degree) intersecting fracture lines. Commonly found in the Southwestern United States (Utah, Arizona) and sandstone formations globally.