sedimentary

Sandstone

Sedimentary Rock (Quartz arenite)

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale (due to quartz content); Color: Tan, brown, yellow, red, grey, or white; Luster: Dull to earthy; Crystal structure: Clastic texture composed of sand-sized mineral grains or rock fragments; Specific gravity: 2.2-2.8

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale (due to quartz content)
Color: Tan, brown, yellow, red, grey, or white
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 (lithification) of mineral particles or rock fragments, predominantly quartz and feldspar, in environments such as deserts, rivers, beaches, and shallow marine areas over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Widely used in construction as a building and paving material, dimension stone, in manufacturing glass, and as a reservoir rock for petroleum and groundwater.

Geological facts

Sandstone is one of the most common sedimentary rocks on Earth. Famous geological formations made of sandstone include the canyons of the American Southwest, such as Zion and Grand Canyon, and Petra in Jordan.

Field identification & locations

Identified in the field by its distinct gritty texture, visible sand grains, and often layered (bedded) appearance. Found worldwide in sedimentary basins and geological exposures.