sedimentary

Sandstone

Arenite

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Tan, beige, or white; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Texture: Granular, feels like sandpaper; Composition: Primarily quartz and feldspar.

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale
Color: Tan, beige, or white
Luster: Dull/Earthy

Identified July 21, 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

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Tan, beige, or white; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Texture: Granular, feels like sandpaper; Composition: Primarily quartz and feldspar.

Formation & geological history

Formed through the accumulation and lithification of sand-sized mineral particles or rock fragments in environments such as deserts, beaches, or river deltas. The specimen shown appears to be a clastic sedimentary rock acting as a substrate for insects.

Uses & applications

Widely used as a construction material (building stone), for paving, and in the manufacturing of glass and grindstones.

Geological facts

Sandstone is one of the most common types of sedimentary rock and often contains fossils. It is a major aquifer and petroleum reservoir due to its porosity.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its gritty texture and visible sand grains. Found globally in sedimentary basins. Collectors often look for colorful 'picture' sandstones or specimens with fossil inclusions.