sedimentary
Sandstone
Sedimentary Clastic Rock (Quartzose Sandstone)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale (due to quartz grains); Color: Red, reddish-brown, tan, or pink; Luster: Dull to earthy; Crystal structure: Amorphous rock made of cemented mineral particles; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.2-2.8
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale (due to quartz grains)
- Color
- Red, reddish-brown, tan, or pink
- Luster
- Dull to earthy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale (due to quartz grains); Color: Red, reddish-brown, tan, or pink; Luster: Dull to earthy; Crystal structure: Amorphous rock made of cemented mineral particles; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.2-2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed by the accumulation, compaction, and cementation of mineral particles or rock fragments, mostly quartz and feldspar, often in desert, beach, or river environments over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in construction, building facades, paving stones, flagstones, and historically for grinding stones and whetstones.
Geological facts
Red sandstone gets its distinct color from iron oxide (hematite) coatings on the sand grains. Famous geological formations like Zion National Park and Petra are carved entirely out of sandstone.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its gritty texture, visible sand-sized grains, and layered bedding planes. Found worldwide in regions with ancient sedimentary basins.
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