sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (SiO2 primarily)
Mohs hardness of 6-7, tan to yellowish-brown color, earthy luster, granular texture (clastic), feels like sandpaper to the touch.
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness of 6-7, tan to yellowish-brown color, earthy luster, granular texture (clastic), feels like sandpaper to the touch.
Formation & geological history
Formed by the accumulation of sand-sized mineral grains or rock fragments, cemented together by silica or carbonate minerals over millions of years in marine or desert environments.
Uses & applications
Used extensively as a building material, in the manufacture of glass, as an abrasive for grinding, and as a reservoir rock for oil and gas.
Geological facts
Sandstone represents about 20% of all sedimentary rocks on Earth and often preserves fossil footprints and ripple marks from ancient environments.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its distinctive gritty texture and visible sand grains. Found globally in canyon walls, river beds, and mountainous regions.
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Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Cone-in-cone structure (Limestone)
Cone-in-cone structure (Secondary Sedimentary Structure)
sedimentary
Sandstone Grain
Clastic Sedimentary Rock Grain (SiO2 dominated)
sedimentary
Chert Breccia
Brecciated Chert (Microcrystalline Silica)
sedimentary
Shale or Slaty Mudstone
Argillaceous sedimentary rock
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Sandstone
Arenite (primarily SiO2)
sedimentary