sedimentary

Sandstone

Arenite

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale); Color: tan, brown, yellow, red, grey, and white; Luster: dull to earthy; Structure: clastic texture with visible sand grains (0.06mm to 2mm); Cleavage: none; Specific Gravity: 2.2 - 2.8.

Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale)
Color: tan, brown, yellow, red, grey, and white
Luster: dull to earthy

Identified January 15, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed by the accumulation of sand-sized grains through water, ice, or wind action, then compacted and cemented by minerals like silica, calcite, or iron oxide. Can date from various geological eras, frequently found in paleo-riverbeds, deserts, and shorelines.

Uses & applications

Used extensively in construction as dimension stone for buildings, paving, and decorative facades. Crushed sandstone is used in road bases and glass manufacturing (if high in silica).

Geological facts

Sandstone makes up about 20-25% of all sedimentary rocks on Earth. The famous Red Rocks of Colorado and the carvings of Petra in Jordan are made of sandstone.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinctive 'sandpaper' feel when rubbed. Look for bedding planes (horizontal layers) or cross-bedding (slanted layers). It is common in the Grand Canyon and the Southwestern United States.

Other sedimentary specimens

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Fossiliferous Sedimentary Rock

Sedimentary limestone with invertebrate fossil imprint

fossil

Sandstone or Siltstone

Arenite (if sandstone)

Sedimentary

Quartz pebble

Silicon dioxide (SiO2)

sedimentary

Generic Pebble / Rock Fragment

Lithic fragment / Weathered rock

sedimentary

Sedimentary Sandstone

Arenite (Sedimentary Rock)

sedimentary

Shale (or Mudstone/Siltstone)

Sedimentary Mudrock (SiO2, Al2O3 base with clay minerals)

sedimentary