sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (SiO2 based clastic rock)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Tan, brown, or reddish due to iron oxide; Luster: Dull or earthy; Crystal structure: Clastic (grainy) texture; Cleavage: None (breaks across grains); Specific gravity: 2.2 - 2.8
- Hardness
- 6-7 Mohs
- Color
- Tan, brown, or reddish due to iron oxide
- Luster
- Dull or earthy
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; Color: Tan, brown, or reddish due to iron oxide; Luster: Dull or earthy; Crystal structure: Clastic (grainy) texture; Cleavage: None (breaks across grains); Specific gravity: 2.2 - 2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accumulation and cementation of sand-sized mineral grains or rock fragments (0.0625 to 2 mm). This specimen shows distinct bedding planes (stratification) formed by successive layers of sediment in a riverbed, desert, or marine environment over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Extensively used as a building material and paving stone due to its durability. In industry, high-purity quartz sandstone is crushed for glass making and used as a reservoir rock for petroleum and natural gas.
Geological facts
Sandstone makes up about 20 to 25 percent of all sedimentary rocks on Earth. The distinct bands seen in this specimen are called 'laminations' and represent changes in the energy of the water or wind that deposited the grains.
Field identification & locations
Identified in the field by its 'gritty' feel (like sandpaper) when rubbed. Look for visible layers or bedding planes. It is commonly found in the Grand Canyon, the Red Rocks of Colorado, and various desert plateau regions globally.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Fossiliferous Sedimentary Rock
Sedimentary limestone with invertebrate fossil imprint
fossil
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Quartz pebble
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
sedimentary
Generic Pebble / Rock Fragment
Lithic fragment / Weathered rock
sedimentary
Sedimentary Sandstone
Arenite (Sedimentary Rock)
sedimentary
Shale (or Mudstone/Siltstone)
Sedimentary Mudrock (SiO2, Al2O3 base with clay minerals)
sedimentary