sedimentary

Sandstone

Sedimentary Clastic Rock (Quartzose Sandstone)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

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

Identified August 1, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

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.