sedimentary

Sandstone

Arenite (siliciclastic sedimentary rock composed mostly of quartz)

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale (due to quartz grains); Color: reddish-brown, tan, or iron-stained orange; Luster: dull to earthy; Texture: granular, feel like sandpaper; Cleavage: none; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale (due to quartz grains)
Color: reddish-brown, tan, or iron-stained orange
Luster: dull to earthy

Identified July 21, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the accumulation, compaction, and cementation of sand-sized mineral particles or rock fragments, usually deposited in desert dunes, riverbeds, beaches, or shallow seas over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Widely used as a construction and paving material, in dimension stone for architecture, as crushed stone, and historically for grindstones. Naturally porous varieties serve as reservoirs for petroleum and groundwater.

Geological facts

Sandstone makes up about 20% of all sedimentary rocks on Earth. The famous red rock formations of Sedona, Arizona, and Zion National Park in Utah are made largely of iron-rich sandstone layers.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its distinctly gritty, sandpaper-like surface feel and visible quartz sand grains. Commonly found near ancient or active river valleys, coastal cliffs, and desert environments worldwide.

Other sedimentary specimens

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Sandstone or Siltstone

Arenite (if sandstone)

Sedimentary

Sedimentary Sandstone

Arenite (Sedimentary Rock)

sedimentary

Fossiliferous Concretion

Septarian Concretion containing Brachiopods/Crinoids

fossil

Shale

Shale (clastic sedimentary rock)

sedimentary

Brown Sandstone (River Rock)

Arenite

sedimentary

Shale

Argillaceous sedimentary rock

sedimentary