sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Tan, brown, or light grey; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Structure: Clastic; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
- Hardness
- 6-7 Mohs
- Color
- Tan, brown, or light grey
- Luster
- Dull/Earthy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Tan, brown, or light grey; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Structure: Clastic; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed from the accumulation and cementation of sand-sized mineral grains or rock fragments, typically through pressure and mineral-laden water. Common in river beds and coastal areas.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction for building blocks, paving, countertops, and as a decorative stone in landscaping.
Geological facts
Sandstone makes up about 10 to 25% of all sedimentary rock on Earth. It often preserves fossils and ripple marks from ancient environments.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its gritty sandpaper-like feel and visible grains. Found globally in sedimentary basins. Collectors look for unique banding or fossil inclusions.
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Other sedimentary specimens
Fossil-bearing concretion, possibly containing a fossil shell or other organic inclusion
Calcareous concretion; exact fossil and host-rock composition are not identifiable from the image
fossil
Fossiliferous Sedimentary Rock
Sedimentary limestone with invertebrate fossil imprint
fossil
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite
sedimentary
Shale
Shale (clastic sedimentary rock)
sedimentary
Shale (or Mudstone/Siltstone)
Sedimentary Mudrock (SiO2, Al2O3 base with clay minerals)
sedimentary