sedimentary

Sandstone

Clastic Sedimentary Rock

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness varies from 6 to 7 depending on cementation (quartz grains), color ranges from tan, brown, yellow, red, grey, to pink, luster is dull or earthy, crystal structure is detrital/granular with quartz, feldspar, and rock fragments, cleavage is none, specific gravity is 2.2 to 2.8.

Identified July 30, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed by the accumulation, compaction, and cementation of mineral particles or rock fragments of sand size, typically in environments like deserts, rivers, beaches, and shallow marine settings over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Widely used in construction as a building material, dimension stone, paving, and formerly for grindstones.

Geological facts

Sandstone formations often serve as excellent aquifers for groundwater and are common reservoirs for oil and natural gas due to their porous nature.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its gritty texture like sandpaper and visible sand grains; commonly found worldwide in sedimentary basins, cliffs, and desert regions.