sedimentary

Sandstone

Sandstone (composed predominantly of Quartz, SiO2, with Feldspar and Clay minerals)

Hardness: 6-7 (varies based on cementation); Color: Yellowish-brown, tan, reddish-brown, green tint from lichen/weathering; Luster: Dull, earthy; Crystal structure: Granular, clastic texture; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8

Hardness: 6-7 (varies based on cementation)
Luster: Dull, earthy

Identified July 27, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed by the compaction and cementation of mineral particles or rock fragments, usually quartz and feldspar, deposited in desert, river, beach, or shallow sea environments over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Widely used as a construction material, paving stone, decorative landscaping stone, and historically for grindstones and sculpture. Important reservoir rock for groundwater and petroleum.

Geological facts

Sandstone accounts for roughly 20 to 25 percent of all sedimentary rocks. Famous landmarks made of sandstone include Petra in Jordan and the Grand Canyon strata in the USA.

Field identification & locations

Identified in the field by its distinctive gritty feel, coarse sand-sized grains, and often visible layering or bedding planes. Very common globally in sedimentary basins, riverbeds, and cliffs.

Other sedimentary specimens

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Sandstone or Siltstone

Arenite (if sandstone)

Sedimentary

Sedimentary Sandstone

Arenite (Sedimentary Rock)

sedimentary

Fossiliferous Concretion

Septarian Concretion containing Brachiopods/Crinoids

fossil

Banded Siltstone / Mudstone Pebble

Siltstone / Argillite

sedimentary

Shale

Shale (clastic sedimentary rock)

sedimentary

Shale

Sedimentary Shale

sedimentary