sedimentary
Sandstone
Sandstone (SiO2 dominant, with minor feldspar and clay minerals)
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale); Color: tan, grey, brownish-buff; Luster: earthy, dull; Texture: fine to medium-grained sand particles bound by silica or carbonate cement; Cleavage: none; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8.
- Hardness
- 6-7 (Mohs scale)
- Color
- tan, grey, brownish-buff
- Luster
- earthy, dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale); Color: tan, grey, brownish-buff; Luster: earthy, dull; Texture: fine to medium-grained sand particles bound by silica or carbonate cement; Cleavage: none; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the compaction and cementation of mineral particles or rock fragments (predominantly quartz sand) deposited in riverbeds, lakes, deserts, or oceans over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used as a construction material, flagstone for paving, building facades, and as a source of silica for glassmaking.
Geological facts
Sandstone matrix often preserves ancient ripple marks, cross-bedding, and trace fossils, telling geologists about prehistoric water currents and ancient desert wind directions.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctly gritty feel (like sandpaper) and fine sand-sized grains. Extremely common worldwide in sedimentary basins, river valleys, and bluffs. Minimal value as a raw specimen.
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