sedimentary
Sandstone
Sedimentary Rock (Quartz Sandstone)
Hardness of 6-7 on the Mohs scale, predominantly red to brown due to iron oxide staining, dull or earthy luster, clastic texture composed of sand-sized mineral grains or rock fragments, specific gravity of 2.2-2.8.
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 6-7 on the Mohs scale, predominantly red to brown due to iron oxide staining, dull or earthy luster, clastic texture composed of sand-sized mineral grains or rock fragments, specific gravity of 2.2-2.8.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the accumulation, compaction, and cementation of mineral particles or rock fragments, primarily quartz, in environments such as deserts, rivers, and beaches over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in construction as building stone, paving material, flagstone, and historically for grinding stones and whetstones.
Geological facts
Sandstone is the famous rock forming many geological monuments worldwide, including the towering formations in Zion National Park and Petra.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its gritty, sandpaper-like texture and visible mineral grains. Found globally in areas with ancient sedimentary basins.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Sedimentary Sandstone
Arenite (Sedimentary Rock)
sedimentary
Fossiliferous Concretion
Septarian Concretion containing Brachiopods/Crinoids
fossil
Banded Siltstone / Mudstone Pebble
Siltstone / Argillite
sedimentary
Shale (or Mudstone/Siltstone)
Sedimentary Mudrock (SiO2, Al2O3 base with clay minerals)
sedimentary
Shale
Shale (clastic sedimentary rock)
sedimentary