sedimentary

Sandstone

Sedimentary Rock (Quartz Sandstone)

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale (due to quartz grains); Color: varies widely from white, grey, yellow, red, to brown depending on iron oxides; Luster: dull to earthy; Crystal structure: clastic texture composed of sand-sized mineral particles or rock fragments; Cleavage: none, breaks across grains;…

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale (due to quartz grains)
Luster: dull to earthy

Identified August 4, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed by the accumulation, compaction, and cementation (lithification) of mineral particles or rock fragments, predominantly quartz and feldspar, in environments such as deserts, rivers, and beaches over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Widely used in construction, building facades, paving stones, flagstone, and historically as grindstones for sharpening tools.

Geological facts

Sandstone formations can be very porous, making them excellent natural aquifers that store vast amounts of groundwater. Famous architectural monuments, including many ancient temples and modern buildings, are constructed from sandstone.

Field identification & locations

Can be identified in the field by its gritty, sandpaper-like texture and visible mineral grains. Commonly found worldwide in sedimentary basins, river valleys, and arid regions.