sedimentary

Sandstone

Clastic sedimentary rock (primarily SiO2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Tan, brown, yellow, or grey; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal structure: Granular/Clastic; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.2-2.8

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale
Color: Tan, brown, yellow, or grey
Luster: Dull/Earthy

Identified March 25, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Tan, brown, yellow, or grey; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal structure: Granular/Clastic; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.2-2.8

Formation & geological history

Formed by the accumulation and cementation of sand-sized mineral grains or rock fragments (clasts) over millions of years. This specimen appears to be lithified sediment common in Paleozoic or Mesozoic terrestrial and coastal environments.

Uses & applications

Commonly used as a construction material (building stone, pavers), an abrasive in glass making, and as a reservoir rock for oil, gas, and groundwater in the energy sector.

Geological facts

Sandstone is one of the most common sedimentary rocks on Earth and makes up about 10-20% of the Earth's sedimentary rock total. It often contains fossils and records information about ancient environments like deserts or riverbeds.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its 'sandpaper' texture and visible grains. It is commonly found in basins, canyons, and coastal bluffs. For collectors, it is easily found in road cuts or riverbeds but has low mineralogical value unless it contains unique fossils or trace minerals.