sedimentary

Sandstone

Sedimentary Rock (Quartz arenite)

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: tan, brown, yellow, red, grey, pink, white; Luster: dull to earthy; Crystal structure: clastic texture composed of quartz and feldspar grains cemented together; Cleavage: none; Specific gravity: 2.2-2.8

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale
Color: tan, brown, yellow, red, grey, pink, white
Luster: dull to earthy

Identified July 28, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed by the accumulation, compaction, and cementation of mineral particles or rock fragments, principally quartz and feldspar, often in marine, lake, desert, or river environments over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Commonly used in construction as building stone, paving material, flagstone, and historically for grinding stones and whetstones.

Geological facts

Sandstone is porous and permeable, making it an excellent natural aquifer for storing groundwater and petroleum. Famous structures like Petra in Jordan are carved directly into massive sandstone cliffs.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its gritty, sandpaper-like texture and visible mineral grains. Found worldwide in sedimentary basins, deserts, and ancient riverbeds.