sedimentary
Sandstone
Sedimentary Rock (Quartz Arenite)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 6-7 on Mohs scale. Colors range from tan, brown, yellow, to red due to iron oxides. Dull to earthy luster with clastic texture.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 6-7 on Mohs scale. Colors range from tan, brown, yellow, to red due to iron oxides. Dull to earthy luster with clastic texture.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the accumulation, compaction, and cementation of mineral particles or rock fragments, predominantly quartz, in marine, desert, or river environments.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction for building stone, paving, and retaining walls, as well as in the manufacture of glass and abrasives.
Geological facts
Sandstone formations like Zion National Park showcase spectacular cross-bedding created by ancient wind-blown sand dunes.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its gritty, sandpaper-like texture and visible sand grains. Found worldwide in sedimentary basins and escarpments.
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Other sedimentary specimens
Fossil-bearing concretion, possibly containing a fossil shell or other organic inclusion
Calcareous concretion; exact fossil and host-rock composition are not identifiable from the image
fossil
Fossiliferous Sedimentary Rock
Sedimentary limestone with invertebrate fossil imprint
fossil
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite
sedimentary
Shale
Shale (clastic sedimentary rock)
sedimentary
Shale (or Mudstone/Siltstone)
Sedimentary Mudrock (SiO2, Al2O3 base with clay minerals)
sedimentary