sedimentary

Sandstone

Clastic sedimentary rock composed mainly of quartz sand

Hardness on Mohs scale is typically 6 to 7 (depending heavily on cementation). Color ranges from white, yellow, and red to brown and grey due to iron oxides and impurities. Luster is dull or earthy. Composed of mineral particles or rock fragments, principally quartz and feldspar.

Identified August 3, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from the accumulation, cementation, and compaction of mineral particles or rock fragments (predominantly sand-sized grains of quartz) in environments such as deserts, rivers, beaches, and shallow marine areas over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Commonly used in construction as a building and paving material, for landscaping, and historically for grinding stones and whetstones.

Geological facts

Sandstone formations often create striking topographical features such as arches, cliffs, and mesas due to differential weathering. Famous examples include Zion National Park and Petra in Jordan.

Field identification & locations

Can be identified in the field by its gritty texture (feeling like fine sandpaper) and visible sand grains. Widely distributed globally in sedimentary basins.

Other sedimentary specimens

See all

Sandstone or Siltstone

Arenite (if sandstone)

Sedimentary

Quartz pebble

Silicon dioxide (SiO2)

sedimentary

Fossiliferous Concretion

Septarian Concretion containing Brachiopods/Crinoids

fossil

Generic Pebble / Rock Fragment

Lithic fragment / Weathered rock

sedimentary

Sedimentary Sandstone

Arenite (Sedimentary Rock)

sedimentary

Banded Siltstone / Mudstone Pebble

Siltstone / Argillite

sedimentary