sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (SiO2 based)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: olive drab to brownish-tan; Luster: dull/earthy; Texture: granular, sandpaper-like; Cleavage: none.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- olive drab to brownish-tan
- Luster
- dull/earthy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: olive drab to brownish-tan; Luster: dull/earthy; Texture: granular, sandpaper-like; Cleavage: none.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accumulation and cementation of sand-sized mineral grains or rock fragments, typically in riverbeds, lakes, or oceans over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a building material, in the manufacturing of glass, and as a common specimen for educational geological collections.
Geological facts
Sandstone accounts for about 10-25% of the sedimentary rocks on Earth. The grains are typically composed of quartz or feldspar because these are the most resistant minerals to weathering.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its gritty texture and visible sand grains. This specific specimen has been chemically or physically weathered into a unique elongated 'cigar' shape.
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Quartz pebble
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
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Generic Pebble / Rock Fragment
Lithic fragment / Weathered rock
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Sedimentary Sandstone
Arenite (Sedimentary Rock)
sedimentary