sedimentary

Sandstone

Arenite (SiO2 dominant)

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale (due to quartz composition); Color: Tan, brownish-orange, light gray, with iron staining; Luster: Dull, earthy; Texture: Medium-grained, granular, feels like sandpaper; Cleavage: None

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale (due to quartz composition)
Color: Tan, brownish-orange, light gray, with iron staining
Luster: Dull, earthy

Identified July 21, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the accumulation, compaction, and cementation of mineral particles or rock fragments (predominantly quartz and feldspar) in fluvial, desert, or marine environments.

Uses & applications

Widely used as a construction material, flagstone, paving stone, decorative landscaping rock, and historically for grinding stones and architecture.

Geological facts

Sandstone is highly porous and permeable, making it one of the most important aquifer rocks for groundwater as well as primary reservoirs for petroleum and natural gas.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its sandy, abrasive texture when rubbed and visible sand grains held together by mineral cement. Extremely common worldwide in riverbeds, canyons, and sedimentary basins.