Rock Identifier
Sandstone (Sedimentary Rock (Quartz arenite / Lithic sandstone)) — sedimentary
sedimentary

Sandstone

Sedimentary Rock (Quartz arenite / Lithic sandstone)

Hardness: 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale (depending on cementation); Color: Tan, brown, yellow, red, grey, or white; Luster: Dull to earthy; Crystal structure: Clastic (composed of mineral particles or rock fragments, predominantly quartz); Cleavage: None (fractures unevenly); Specific Gravity: 2.2 to 2.8

Hardness
6 to 7 on the Mohs scale (depending on cementation)
Color
Tan, brown, yellow, red, grey, or white
Luster
Dull to earthy
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Physical properties

Hardness: 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale (depending on cementation); Color: Tan, brown, yellow, red, grey, or white; Luster: Dull to earthy; Crystal structure: Clastic (composed of mineral particles or rock fragments, predominantly quartz); Cleavage: None (fractures unevenly); Specific Gravity: 2.2 to 2.8

Formation & geological history

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

Uses & applications

Widely used in construction as a building stone, paving material, for making grindstones, and as a reservoir rock for petroleum and natural gas.

Geological facts

Many of the world's most famous monuments and ancient structures, including the Treasury in Petra and parts of the Egyptian temples, were carved directly out of massive sandstone formations.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its gritty texture (feels like sandpaper) and visible sand grains. Found worldwide in sedimentary basins, deserts, and ancient riverbeds. Collectors look for unique banding or fossil impressions.

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