sedimentary

Sandstone

Sedimentary Rock (Quartz arenite)

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale (depending on cement); Color: Tan, brown, yellow, red, grey, pink, white; Luster: Dull to earthy; Crystal structure: Clastic texture composed of sand-sized mineral grains or rock fragments, primarily quartz; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.2-2.8

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale (depending on cement)
Color: Tan, brown, yellow, red, grey, pink, white
Luster: Dull to earthy

Identified July 29, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed by the accumulation, compaction, and cementation of mineral particles or rock fragments (mostly quartz and feldspar) in environments such as beaches, deserts, floodplains, and shallow marine areas over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Widely used in construction as a building material, paving stone, and dimension stone, as well as in the manufacture of glass and abrasives.

Geological facts

Sandstone is porous and permeable, making it an excellent natural aquifer capable of storing large quantities of groundwater and petroleum.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its gritty, sandpaper-like texture and visible mineral grains. Commonly found worldwide in layered sedimentary rock formations and cliffs.