
sedimentary
Sandstone
Clastic Sedimentary Rock (Quartz arenite)
Hardness of 6-7 on the Mohs scale, typically brown, tan, yellow, or reddish in color, dull or earthy luster, granular texture consisting mostly of quartz grains.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 6-7 on the Mohs scale, typically brown, tan, yellow, or reddish in color, dull or earthy luster, granular texture consisting mostly of quartz grains.
Formation & geological history
Formed by the accumulation, compaction, and cementation of mineral particles or rock fragments, chiefly quartz, in environments such as deserts, rivers, and beaches over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in construction, building facades, paving stones, and historically for grinding stones.
Geological facts
Sandstone is porous and acts as a major reservoir for water and petroleum. Famous monuments around the world, including Petra in Jordan and parts of the White House, are carved from sandstone.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its visible sand-sized grains and gritty texture. Found worldwide in sedimentary basins and geological strata.
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Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Fossiliferous Concretion
Septarian Concretion containing Brachiopods/Crinoids
fossil
Sedimentary Sandstone
Arenite (Sedimentary Rock)
sedimentary
Quartz pebble
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
sedimentary
Generic Pebble / Rock Fragment
Lithic fragment / Weathered rock
sedimentary
Banded Siltstone / Mudstone Pebble
Siltstone / Argillite
sedimentary