sedimentary
Sandstone
Sedimentary Rock (Quartz Arenite)
Hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale, typically brown, tan, yellow, or reddish-brown due to iron oxide impurities. Dull to earthy luster, composed of cemented mineral grains or rock particles, predominantly quartz and feldspar.
Identified More sedimentary →
Explore Sandstone in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale, typically brown, tan, yellow, or reddish-brown due to iron oxide impurities. Dull to earthy luster, composed of cemented mineral grains or rock particles, predominantly quartz and feldspar.
Formation & geological history
Formed by the accumulation, compaction, and cementation of mineral particles or rock fragments, usually deposited by water, wind, or ice in environments like deserts, rivers, and beaches over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in construction as building stone, paving material, and in the manufacture of glass and concrete.
Geological facts
Sandstone formations can store vast amounts of groundwater and petroleum, making them crucial reservoirs in hydrogeology and the oil and gas industry.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its gritty texture, visible sand grains, and layered sedimentary structure. Found worldwide in deserts, canyons, and ancient riverbeds.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Quartz pebble
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
sedimentary
Fossiliferous Concretion
Septarian Concretion containing Brachiopods/Crinoids
fossil
Generic Pebble / Rock Fragment
Lithic fragment / Weathered rock
sedimentary
Sedimentary Sandstone
Arenite (Sedimentary Rock)
sedimentary
Banded Siltstone / Mudstone Pebble
Siltstone / Argillite
sedimentary