sedimentary
Sandstone
Sedimentary rock composed mainly of quartz sand grains
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale, typically brown, tan, yellow, red, or grey in color, dull or earthy luster, granular texture, specific gravity around 2.2 to 2.8.
Identified More sedimentary →
Explore Sandstone in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale, typically brown, tan, yellow, red, or grey in color, dull or earthy luster, granular texture, specific gravity around 2.2 to 2.8.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the accumulation, compaction, and cementation of mineral particles or rock fragments, predominantly quartz, in environments such as deserts, rivers, and beaches over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction, building facades, paving, and formerly for grindstones.
Geological facts
Sandstone formations often create striking geological features like arches, cliffs, and canyons due to differential weathering.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its visible grainy texture resembling sandpaper. Found worldwide in sedimentary basins and geological strata.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Fossiliferous Sedimentary Rock
Sedimentary limestone with invertebrate fossil imprint
fossil
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite
sedimentary
Quartz pebble
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
sedimentary
Shale
Shale (clastic sedimentary rock)
sedimentary
Shale (or Mudstone/Siltstone)
Sedimentary Mudrock (SiO2, Al2O3 base with clay minerals)
sedimentary