sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale), Color: tan, yellow, or grey (often showing sun-dappled patterns under water), Luster: dull to earthy, Crystal Structure: clastic (sand-sized grains), Cleavage: absent, SG: 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, yellow, or grey (often showing sun-dappled patterns under water), Luster: dull to earthy, Crystal Structure: clastic (sand-sized grains), Cleavage: absent, SG: 2.2-2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed by the accumulation and cementation of sand-sized mineral particles or rock fragments, typically in marine, lake, or desert environments over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction, paving, landscaping, and as a source of quartz for glassmaking. In lake settings, it provides natural habitat for aquatic life.
Geological facts
Sandstone makes up about 10-20% of the Earth's sedimentary rocks. Its porosity makes it one of the most important reservoir rocks for groundwater and petroleum.
Field identification & locations
Look for visible sand grains and 'gritty' texture. Found globally in coastal areas and riverbeds. Collectors value specimens with unique bedding planes or fossil inclusions.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Fossiliferous Sedimentary Rock
Sedimentary limestone with invertebrate fossil imprint
fossil
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite
sedimentary
Quartz pebble
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
sedimentary
Shale
Shale (clastic sedimentary rock)
sedimentary
Shale (or Mudstone/Siltstone)
Sedimentary Mudrock (SiO2, Al2O3 base with clay minerals)
sedimentary