sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Tan, grey, brown, reddish; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal structure: Clastic (grains of quartz/feldspar); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
- Hardness
- 6-7 Mohs
- Color
- Tan, grey, brown, reddish
- Luster
- Dull/Earthy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Tan, grey, brown, reddish; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal structure: Clastic (grains of quartz/feldspar); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accumulation and cementation of mineral particles or rock fragments (sand) over millions of years, typically in river beds, beaches, or desert environments.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction for building facades, paving, and crushing into aggregate. High-purity quartz sandstone is used in glass making.
Geological facts
Sandstone often preserves ripples and cross-bedding from ancient dunes or water currents. It is a major reservoir rock for groundwater and petroleum due to its porosity.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its gritty, sandpaper-like feel and visible grains. Often found in layered outcrops or as weathered river cobbles. Look for sedimentary layering (bedding planes).
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Arenite (if sandstone)
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Brown Sandstone (River Rock)
Arenite
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Mudstone
Argillite / Siliciclastic sedimentary rock
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Cone-in-cone structure (Limestone)
Cone-in-cone structure (Secondary Sedimentary Structure)
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Sandstone
Arenite (primarily SiO2)
sedimentary
Sandstone Grain
Clastic Sedimentary Rock Grain (SiO2 dominated)
sedimentary