sedimentary
Sandstone
Clastic sedimentary rock (Quartz arenite)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 6-7 on Mohs scale, typically brown, tan, or reddish color, dull luster, and granular texture composed of cemented mineral particles.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 6-7 on Mohs scale, typically brown, tan, or reddish color, dull luster, and granular texture composed of cemented mineral particles.
Formation & geological history
Formed by the accumulation, compaction, and cementation of mineral particles or rock fragments, mostly quartz and feldspar, in marine, river, or desert environments over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used as a construction material for building, paving, and monuments, as well as an aquifer for groundwater and a reservoir rock for petroleum.
Geological facts
Sandstone formations like Zion National Park display stunning cross-bedding created by ancient wind-blown sand dunes. It is durable enough to weather centuries of exposure.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its visible sand-sized grains and gritty texture; commonly found worldwide in sedimentary basins, cliffs, and desert regions.
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Other sedimentary specimens
Fossil-bearing concretion, possibly containing a fossil shell or other organic inclusion
Calcareous concretion; exact fossil and host-rock composition are not identifiable from the image
fossil
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Fossiliferous Sedimentary Rock
Sedimentary limestone with invertebrate fossil imprint
fossil
Sandstone
Arenite
sedimentary
Shale
Shale (clastic sedimentary rock)
sedimentary
Shale (or Mudstone/Siltstone)
Sedimentary Mudrock (SiO2, Al2O3 base with clay minerals)
sedimentary