sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (Sandstone)
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Brown, tan, reddish; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal structure: Clastic (grains); Cleavage: None/Grainy; Texture: Gritty like sandpaper.
- Hardness
- 6-7 Mohs
- Color
- Brown, tan, reddish
- Luster
- Dull/Earthy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Brown, tan, reddish; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal structure: Clastic (grains); Cleavage: None/Grainy; Texture: Gritty like sandpaper.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the accumulation and cementation of sand-sized mineral grains or rock fragments (usually quartz or feldspar) in environments like deserts, riverbeds, or beaches over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Commonly used as a building material, paving stone, grit in industrial processes, and as a reservoir rock for oil and gas.
Geological facts
Sandstone accounts for roughly 20-25% of all sedimentary rocks on Earth. The famous red rocks of the Grand Canyon are primarily composed of various sandstone layers.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its gritty texture (feels like sandpaper when rubbed) and visible layered bedding. It is found globally in sedimentary basins.
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Arenite (if sandstone)
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Cone-in-cone structure (Secondary Sedimentary Structure)
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Brecciated Chert (Microcrystalline Silica)
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Sandstone Grain
Clastic Sedimentary Rock Grain (SiO2 dominated)
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Shale or Slaty Mudstone
Argillaceous sedimentary rock
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Sandstone
Arenite (primarily SiO2)
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