sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (SiO2 predominantly)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Tan, brown, yellow, red; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Structure: Clastic; Cleavage: None; SG: 2.2-2.8
- Hardness
- 6-7 Mohs
- Color
- Tan, brown, yellow, red
- Luster
- Dull/Earthy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Tan, brown, yellow, red; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Structure: Clastic; Cleavage: None; SG: 2.2-2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accumulation and cementation of mineral particles or rock fragments, typically silicate and quartz, in marine or desert environments.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction for paving and building facades, as well as a reservoir rock for oil and gas.
Geological facts
Sandstone represents about 20-25% of all sedimentary rocks on Earth. Familiar formations include the Grand Canyon.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its gritty sandpaper feel. Common in desert regions and near ancient riverbeds across North America and Europe.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Fossil-bearing concretion, possibly containing a fossil shell or other organic inclusion
Calcareous concretion; exact fossil and host-rock composition are not identifiable from the image
fossil
Fossiliferous Sedimentary Rock
Sedimentary limestone with invertebrate fossil imprint
fossil
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite
sedimentary
Shale
Shale (clastic sedimentary rock)
sedimentary
Shale (or Mudstone/Siltstone)
Sedimentary Mudrock (SiO2, Al2O3 base with clay minerals)
sedimentary