sedimentary
Sandstone
Sedimentary Clastic Rock (Quartz Arenite)
Hardness of 6-7 on the Mohs scale, colors range from tan, brown, yellow, red, to grey depending on iron oxides and mineral impurities, dull or earthy luster, clastic or granular crystal structure with visible sand-sized grains, poor to moderate cleavage.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 6-7 on the Mohs scale, colors range from tan, brown, yellow, red, to grey depending on iron oxides and mineral impurities, dull or earthy luster, clastic or granular crystal structure with visible sand-sized grains, poor to moderate cleavage.
Formation & geological history
Formed by the accumulation, compaction, and cementation (lithification) of mineral particles or rock fragments, primarily quartz and feldspar, deposited by water, wind, or ice in environments such as deserts, rivers, beaches, and shallow marine settings over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction and architecture as dimension stone, building facades, paving slabs, and formerly for grindstones and whetstones.
Geological facts
Sandstone formations like Zion National Park and Petra in Jordan display dramatic cross-bedding which reveals ancient wind and water flow directions.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified in the field by its sandpaper-like texture and visible sand grains. Found worldwide in sedimentary basins and geological strata.
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Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Fossiliferous Concretion
Septarian Concretion containing Brachiopods/Crinoids
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Sedimentary Sandstone
Arenite (Sedimentary Rock)
sedimentary
Quartz pebble
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
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Generic Pebble / Rock Fragment
Lithic fragment / Weathered rock
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Banded Siltstone / Mudstone Pebble
Siltstone / Argillite
sedimentary