sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Tan, brown, or grey; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal structure: Granular/Clastic; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.2-2.8
- Hardness
- 6-7 Mohs
- Color
- Tan, brown, or grey
- Luster
- Dull/Earthy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Tan, brown, or grey; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal structure: Granular/Clastic; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.2-2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed from the accumulation and cementation of sand-sized mineral grains or rock fragments, typically through marine or desert deposition processes over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Used widely in construction for building stone, paving, and decorative architectural features; also a source of silica for glassmaking.
Geological facts
Sandstone is one of the most common sedimentary rocks on Earth, making up about 20% of all sedimentary rock on the planet. It often contains fossils and serves as a major reservoir for groundwater and oil.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its gritty texture (feels like sandpaper) and visible sand grains. Found globally in canyon walls, riverbeds, and coastal regions.
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Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Brown Sandstone (River Rock)
Arenite
sedimentary
Mudstone
Argillite / Siliciclastic sedimentary rock
sedimentary
Cone-in-cone structure (Limestone)
Cone-in-cone structure (Secondary Sedimentary Structure)
sedimentary
Sandstone Grain
Clastic Sedimentary Rock Grain (SiO2 dominated)
sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (primarily SiO2)
sedimentary