sedimentary

Sandstone

Sedimentary Rock (Quartz arenite or arkose)

Hardness: 6-7 on the Mohs scale depending on cementation; Color: Varies widely including tan, brown, yellow, red, grey, pink, white; Luster: Dull to earthy; Crystal structure: Clastic (composed of mineral particles or rock fragments, predominantly quartz); Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.2-2.8

Hardness: 6-7 on the Mohs scale depending on cementation
Luster: Dull to earthy

Identified July 31, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed by the accumulation, compaction, and cementation of mineral particles or rock fragments, mainly quartz and feldspar, often in environments like deserts, rivers, lakes, and beaches. Geological age ranges from Precambrian to recent.

Uses & applications

Used widely in construction as building stone, paving material, for making glass, and as a reservoir rock for petroleum and water.

Geological facts

Sandstone formations like Zion National Park or Petra in Jordan showcase massive, beautiful wind-blown or water-deposited cross-bedding layers formed millions of years ago.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its gritty texture like sandpaper and visible layered bedding planes. Common worldwide in sedimentary basins, cliffs, and riverbeds.

Other sedimentary specimens

See all

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