sedimentary

Sandstone

Sedimentary Rock (Quartz Arenite)

Hardness: 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale (depending on cementation). Color: Varies widely including gray, tan, yellow, red, and brown due to impurities. Luster: Dull to earthy. Crystal structure: Clastic texture composed of sand-sized mineral particles or rock fragments, primarily quartz. Specific gravity: 2.2 to 2.8.

Hardness: 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale (depending on cementation)
Luster: Dull to earthy

Identified July 30, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the accumulation, compaction, and cementation of mineral particles or rock fragments (predominantly quartz) 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 stone, monument construction, and historically for grindstones.

Geological facts

Sandstone formations often display distinct bedding planes and cross-bedding which tell geologists about ancient wind or water current directions. Famous structures like Petra in Jordan are carved directly into sandstone cliffs.