sedimentary

Sandstone with Mineral Veining or Crust

Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 6-7 (individual grains); Color: Tan to reddish-brown (ochre); Luster: Dull or earthy; Structure: Granular/clastic; often shows course quartz crystals in the side view layers.

Hardness: 6-7 (individual grains)
Color: Tan to reddish-brown (ochre)
Luster: Dull or earthy

Identified July 9, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6-7 (individual grains); Color: Tan to reddish-brown (ochre); Luster: Dull or earthy; Structure: Granular/clastic; often shows course quartz crystals in the side view layers.

Formation & geological history

Formed by the accumulation and lithification of sand-sized mineral particles or rock fragments. Often formed in desert, river, or coastal environments. This specimen appears to have a secondary crystalline mineral coating on one edge.

Uses & applications

Commonly used as a building material and in the manufacture of glass (if high silica). Collected as garden stone or for interesting mineral inclusions.

Geological facts

Sandstone is one of the most common sedimentary rocks on Earth. Its color is often dictated by the presence of iron oxides like hematite or goethite, giving it a characteristic rust-like hue.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its gritty texture (feels like sandpaper) and visible sand grains. Found globally in canyon lands and sedimentary basins. Check for porousness and layering.