sedimentary

Sandstone

Clastic Sedimentary Rock

Hardness: 6 to 7 (due to quartz grains); Color: Tan, brown, yellow, red, grey, pink, white, or black; Luster: Dull or earthy; Crystal structure: Amorphous aggregate of mineral grains, primarily quartz and feldspar; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.2 to 2.8.

Hardness: 6 to 7 (due to quartz grains)
Color: Tan, brown, yellow, red, grey, pink, white, or black
Luster: Dull or earthy

Identified August 6, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed by the accumulation, compaction, and cementation of mineral particles or rock fragments, usually composed mostly of quartz, in environments such as deserts, rivers, lakes, and shallow marine areas over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Commonly used in construction for building materials, paving, landscaping, and formerly for grindstones.

Geological facts

Sandstone formations often preserve ripple marks and cross-bedding from ancient environments, and famous geological wonders like Zion National Park and Petra are carved from sandstone.