sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Tan, beige, pinkish-orange; Luster: Dull or earthy; Texture: Granular, like sandpaper; Structure: Clastic
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Tan, beige, pinkish-orange
- Luster
- Dull or earthy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Tan, beige, pinkish-orange; Luster: Dull or earthy; Texture: Granular, like sandpaper; Structure: Clastic
Formation & geological history
Formed from the accumulation and cementation of mineral particles or rock fragments of sand size, often in desert or beach environments over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Used widely as a construction material, for flagstones, pavers, and decorative garden ornaments like the engraved sign shown here.
Geological facts
Sandstone accounts for about 20% to 25% of all sedimentary rocks on Earth. The famous 'Red Rocks' of the American Southwest are primarily sandstone.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its gritty texture and visible sand grains. Common in arid regions or ancient riverbeds. Popular for landscaping due to durability and natural aesthetics.
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Arenite (if sandstone)
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Cone-in-cone structure (Limestone)
Cone-in-cone structure (Secondary Sedimentary Structure)
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Chert Breccia
Brecciated Chert (Microcrystalline Silica)
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Sandstone Grain
Clastic Sedimentary Rock Grain (SiO2 dominated)
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Shale or Slaty Mudstone
Argillaceous sedimentary rock
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Sandstone
Arenite (primarily SiO2)
sedimentary