sedimentary

Sandstone

Clastic Sedimentary Rock

Hardness: 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale (depending on the cementing material); Color: Tan, brown, yellow, red, grey, pink, white; Luster: Dull to earthy; Crystal structure: Amorphous/clastic grain aggregation (quartz grains); Cleavage: None

Color: Tan, brown, yellow, red, grey, pink, white
Luster: Dull to earthy

Identified August 1, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed by the accumulation, compaction, and cementation of mineral particles or rock fragments, chiefly quartz and feldspar, in environments such as beaches, deserts, flood plains, and rivers. Geological age varies widely from Precambrian to Recent.

Uses & applications

Commonly used in construction as building stone, paving material, and in the manufacturing of glass, concrete, and abrasives.

Geological facts

Sandstone is porous and permeable, which makes it an excellent aquifer for storing groundwater and natural oil deposits. Many famous historical monuments, such as Petra in Jordan and parts of the Egyptian temples, are carved directly out of sandstone cliffs.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its gritty texture (feeling like fine sandpaper) and visible sand grains or distinct bedding planes. Found worldwide in sedimentary basins, deserts, and coastal regions. For collectors, look for banded varieties or fossil-bearing layers.