sedimentary

Sandstone

Arenite (primarily Quartz-rich)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 6-7 (if quartz-rich); Color: Tan, beige, or yellow-brown; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Texture: Granular/Sand-like; Porous and gritty to the touch.

Hardness: 6-7 (if quartz-rich)
Color: Tan, beige, or yellow-brown
Luster: Dull/Earthy

Identified July 13, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6-7 (if quartz-rich); Color: Tan, beige, or yellow-brown; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Texture: Granular/Sand-like; Porous and gritty to the touch.

Formation & geological history

Formed from the accumulation and cementation of sand-sized mineral grains or rock fragments over millions of years, typically in desert, river, or ocean environments.

Uses & applications

Commonly used as a building material, grit for grinding, and as a reservoir rock in the petroleum industry for oil and natural gas.

Geological facts

Sandstone makes up about 20-25% of all sedimentary rocks on Earth. Famous landmarks like the Grand Canyon and the Treasury at Petra are carved into or composed of sandstone layers.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its gritty texture (feels like sandpaper) and visible sand grains. It is found globally in sedimentary basins and along ancient coastlines.