sedimentary
Sandstone
Quartz arenite / Lithic sandstone
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale, typically tan, gray, yellow, or red in color with a dull to earthy luster and a clastic texture.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale, typically tan, gray, yellow, or red in color with a dull to earthy luster and a clastic texture.
Formation & geological history
Formed by the accumulation, compaction, and cementation of mineral particles or rock fragments, chiefly quartz and feldspar, often in desert, river, or marine environments.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction as a building stone, for paving, and in the manufacturing of glass and abrasives.
Geological facts
Famous ancient structures globally, including many temples and monuments, are carved from sandstone due to its workability and durability.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its grainy texture resembling fine sandpaper; commonly found in sedimentary basins worldwide.
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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
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Fossiliferous Sedimentary Rock
Sedimentary limestone with invertebrate fossil imprint
fossil
Sandstone
Arenite
sedimentary
Shale
Shale (clastic sedimentary rock)
sedimentary
Shale (or Mudstone/Siltstone)
Sedimentary Mudrock (SiO2, Al2O3 base with clay minerals)
sedimentary