sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (SiO2 principal)
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale), Color: tan/brown/rusty orange, Luster: dull/earthy, Crystal structure: clastic texture, Cleavage: none, Specific gravity: 2.2-2.8
Identified More sedimentary →
Explore Sandstone in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale), Color: tan/brown/rusty orange, Luster: dull/earthy, Crystal structure: clastic texture, Cleavage: none, Specific gravity: 2.2-2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accumulation and cementation of sand-sized mineral grains or rock fragments, typically in river beds, deserts, or coastal environments over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Construction material, glass manufacturing (high silica varieties), architectural stone, and geological study. Small pebbles like this are common in landscaping and erosion control.
Geological facts
Sandstone represents about 20 to 25 percent of all sedimentary rocks on Earth. The color is usually dictated by the iron oxide or calcium carbonate content of the cementing material.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its gritty sandpaper-like feel. Commonly found in outcroppings, riverbeds, and sedimentary basins. Search for bedding planes when identifying in the field.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Fossiliferous Concretion
Septarian Concretion containing Brachiopods/Crinoids
fossil
Shale
Shale (clastic sedimentary rock)
sedimentary
Brown Sandstone (River Rock)
Arenite
sedimentary
Cone-in-cone structure (Limestone)
Cone-in-cone structure (Secondary Sedimentary Structure)
sedimentary
Shale
Argillaceous sedimentary rock
sedimentary