sedimentary
Sandstone
Sedimentary Rock (Quartz Sandstone)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale (depending on cementation), Color: Yellow to tan, Luster: Dull to earthy, Crystal Structure: Clastic with quartz grains, Cleavage: None, 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 on Mohs scale (depending on cementation), Color: Yellow to tan, Luster: Dull to earthy, Crystal Structure: Clastic with quartz grains, Cleavage: None, Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed by the accumulation, compaction, and cementation of mineral particles or rock fragments, predominantly quartz sand, in marine, desert, or river environments over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in construction, building facades, paving, and as an aquifer reservoir rock for groundwater and petroleum.
Geological facts
Sandstone is widely used in architecture around the world because it is easy to carve yet durable. Famous monuments like Petra in Jordan and parts of the White House in Washington, D.C. are constructed from sandstone.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified in the field by its gritty texture like sandpaper and visible sand grains. Found worldwide in sedimentary basins, deserts, and ancient riverbeds.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Sedimentary Sandstone
Arenite (Sedimentary Rock)
sedimentary
Fossiliferous Concretion
Septarian Concretion containing Brachiopods/Crinoids
fossil
Banded Siltstone / Mudstone Pebble
Siltstone / Argillite
sedimentary
Shale (or Mudstone/Siltstone)
Sedimentary Mudrock (SiO2, Al2O3 base with clay minerals)
sedimentary
Shale
Shale (clastic sedimentary rock)
sedimentary