sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (SiO2 primarily)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectMohs 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
Fossil-bearing concretion, possibly containing a fossil shell or other organic inclusion
Calcareous concretion; exact fossil and host-rock composition are not identifiable from the image
fossil
Fossiliferous Sedimentary Rock
Sedimentary limestone with invertebrate fossil imprint
fossil
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite
sedimentary
Shale
Shale (clastic sedimentary rock)
sedimentary
Shale (or Mudstone/Siltstone)
Sedimentary Mudrock (SiO2, Al2O3 base with clay minerals)
sedimentary