sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (SiO2 primarily)
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale), Color: Tan/Brown/Reddish, Luster: Dull/Earthy, Crystal Structure: Granular/Clastic, Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
Identified More sedimentary →
Explore Sandstone in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale), Color: Tan/Brown/Reddish, Luster: Dull/Earthy, Crystal Structure: Granular/Clastic, Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed by the accumulation and lithification of sand-sized mineral grains or rock fragments, typically through pressure and mineral cements like silica or calcium carbonate in river, ocean, or desert environments.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in construction for building stone, tiles, and as a raw material for glass manufacturing and industrial abrasives.
Geological facts
Sandstone can preserve fossilized footprints and ripple marks from ancient water currents, providing a 'snapshot' of prehistoric environments.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its gritty texture (feels like sandpaper) and visible layering. It is common worldwide in sedimentary basin regions.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Cone-in-cone structure (Limestone)
Cone-in-cone structure (Secondary Sedimentary Structure)
sedimentary
Chert Breccia
Brecciated Chert (Microcrystalline Silica)
sedimentary
Sandstone Grain
Clastic Sedimentary Rock Grain (SiO2 dominated)
sedimentary
Shale or Slaty Mudstone
Argillaceous sedimentary rock
sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (primarily SiO2)
sedimentary