sedimentary

Sandstone

Clastic Sedimentary Rock

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale (depending on the cement); Color: Tan, brown, yellow, red, grey, pink, white, or black; Luster: Dull or earthy; Crystal Structure: Amorphous/granular (composed of mineral grains); Cleavage: None

Hardness: 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale (depending on the cement)
Color: Tan, brown, yellow, red, grey, pink, white, or black
Luster: Dull or earthy

Identified July 28, 2026More sedimentary →

Explore Sandstone in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed by the accumulation, compaction, and cementation of mineral particles or rock fragments, usually composed mostly of quartz and feldspar, deposited in environments such as deserts, rivers, and beaches over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Commonly used in construction, building facades, paving, flooring, and historically for grinding stones and whetstones.

Geological facts

Sandstone can absorb water and acts as a natural aquifer, storing significant amounts of groundwater. Many famous historical monuments, such as Petra in Jordan and the temples of Angkor Wat, are carved directly out of sandstone formations.

Field identification & locations

Identified in the field by its distinct gritty texture, similar to coarse sandpaper, and visible sand-sized grains. Found worldwide in sedimentary basins, deserts, and ancient riverbeds.