sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (primarily Quartz and Feldspar)
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale); Color: tan, beige, brown; Luster: dull to earthy; Crystal Structure: Clastic grain texture; Cleavage: none; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
- Hardness
- 6-7 (Mohs scale)
- Color
- tan, beige, brown
- Luster
- dull to earthy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale); Color: tan, beige, brown; Luster: dull to earthy; Crystal Structure: Clastic grain texture; Cleavage: none; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed from the accumulation and lithification of sand-sized mineral grains or rock fragments, typically through transport by water or wind and subsequent burial under pressure over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Commonly used as a building material, paving stone, for sculptures, and as a reservoir rock in the petroleum industry.
Geological facts
Sandstone makes up about 10-20% of Earth's sedimentary rocks. Famous landmarks like Petra in Jordan and the Grand Canyon are primarily composed of various sandstone layers.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its gritty, sandpaper-like feel and visible grains. Often shows distinct bedding layers. Common in desert environments and river basins.
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Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Mudstone
Argillite / Siliciclastic sedimentary rock
sedimentary
Brown Sandstone (River Rock)
Arenite
sedimentary
Cone-in-cone structure (Limestone)
Cone-in-cone structure (Secondary Sedimentary Structure)
sedimentary
Sandstone Grain
Clastic Sedimentary Rock Grain (SiO2 dominated)
sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (primarily SiO2)
sedimentary