sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Tan, brown, or reddish-brown; Luster: Dull or earthy; Crystal structure: Granular/Clastic; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.2-2.8
- Hardness
- 6-7 Mohs
- Color
- Tan, brown, or reddish-brown
- Luster
- Dull or earthy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Tan, brown, or reddish-brown; Luster: Dull or earthy; Crystal structure: Granular/Clastic; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.2-2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accumulation and cementation of sand-sized mineral or rock grains, primarily quartz and feldspar, in environments like deserts, beaches, or riverbeds. Age varies from Precambrian to Cenozoic.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for building stone and paving, as well as a source of silica for glass manufacturing and industrial filtration.
Geological facts
Sandstone is often the primary reservoir rock for oil and natural gas because of its high porosity and permeability.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its gritty, sandpaper-like texture. Commonly found in massive beds across the United States Southwest and European plateaus.
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Cone-in-cone structure (Secondary Sedimentary Structure)
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Brecciated Chert (Microcrystalline Silica)
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Sandstone Grain
Clastic Sedimentary Rock Grain (SiO2 dominated)
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Shale or Slaty Mudstone
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Sandstone
Arenite (primarily SiO2)
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