sedimentary

Sandstone

Sedimentary Clastic Rock (Quartz Arenite)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness is typically 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale depending on cementation; colors vary widely including tan, brown, yellow, red, grey, and pink; luster is dull or earthy; composed primarily of sand-sized mineral particles or rock fragments, mostly quartz and feldspar; non-foliated with a granular texture;…

Identified August 5, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed by the accumulation, compaction, and cementation of mineral particles or rock fragments, usually in environments such as deserts, beaches, floodplains, and shallow marine waters over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Extensively used as a construction material for building, paving stones, flagstones, and historically for grinding stones and whetstones.

Geological facts

Sandstone formations often display distinct parallel layering called bedding or cross-bedding which reveals ancient wind or water current directions. Famous structures like Petra in Jordan and the US Capitol are built from sandstone.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its gritty texture, visible sand grains, and layered sedimentary structure. It is found worldwide in sedimentary basins and geological formations exposed at the surface.