sedimentary
Sandstone
Clastic Sedimentary Rock
Hardness: 6 to 7 (due to quartz grains), Color: various shades of tan, brown, yellow, red, grey, pink, Luster: dull to earthy, Crystal structure: clastic/granular texture composed mostly of quartz and feldspar sand grains, Cleavage: none
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6 to 7 (due to quartz grains), Color: various shades of tan, brown, yellow, red, grey, pink, Luster: dull to earthy, Crystal structure: clastic/granular texture composed mostly of quartz and feldspar sand grains, Cleavage: none
Formation & geological history
Formed by the accumulation, compaction, and cementation of mineral particles or rock fragments, usually sand-sized (0.0625 to 2 mm), most commonly quartz. Formed in environments such as deserts, rivers, and beaches over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in construction, building facades, paving stones, flagstones, and historically for making grindstones and whetstones.
Geological facts
Many of the world's most famous monuments and ancient structures, including parts of the Egyptian pyramids and Petra in Jordan, are carved from or built of sandstone.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its gritty, sandpaper-like texture and visible mineral grains. It is found worldwide, especially in areas with ancient deserts or river basins.
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