sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale), Color: tan, yellow, cream, Luster: dull/earthy, Crystal structure: clastic texture, Cleavage: none, Specific gravity: 2.2-2.8
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale), Color: tan, yellow, cream, Luster: dull/earthy, Crystal structure: clastic texture, Cleavage: none, Specific gravity: 2.2-2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed from the accumulation and cementation of sand-sized mineral particles or rock fragments, typically occurring in desert, river, or coastal environments.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in construction as a building stone, in the manufacture of glass, and as a reservoir rock for oil and natural gas.
Geological facts
Sandstone makes up about 20% of all sedimentary rocks on Earth. The famous red rock formations in Sedona, Arizona and Zion National Park are composed of sandstone.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its gritty, sandpaper-like feel and visible layered bedding planes. Common globally in sedimentary basins.
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Other sedimentary specimens
Fossil-bearing concretion, possibly containing a fossil shell or other organic inclusion
Calcareous concretion; exact fossil and host-rock composition are not identifiable from the image
fossil
Fossiliferous Sedimentary Rock
Sedimentary limestone with invertebrate fossil imprint
fossil
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite
sedimentary
Shale
Shale (clastic sedimentary rock)
sedimentary
Shale (or Mudstone/Siltstone)
Sedimentary Mudrock (SiO2, Al2O3 base with clay minerals)
sedimentary