sedimentary

Sandstone

Sedimentary Rock (Quartz arenite)

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: tan, brown, yellow, red, grey, pink, white; Luster: dull to vitreous; Structure: clastic texture composed of sand-sized mineral grains or rock fragments; Specific gravity: 2.2-2.8

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale
Color: tan, brown, yellow, red, grey, pink, white
Luster: dull to vitreous

Identified July 31, 2026More sedimentary →

Explore Sandstone in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed by the accumulation, compaction, and cementation of mineral particles or rock fragments, most commonly quartz and feldspar, typically deposited in environments like deserts, rivers, and beaches over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Commonly used in construction as a building material, paving stone, and decorative aggregate, as well as in the manufacture of glass.

Geological facts

Sandstone is porous and permeable, which makes it an excellent aquifer for storing groundwater and natural oil and gas reserves. Famous structures like Petra in Jordan and the US Capitol are built from sandstone.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its visible sand grains, gritty texture, and layered sedimentary structure. It is found worldwide in geological formations where ancient deserts or water bodies existed.