sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (SiO2 based)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 6-7 (Mohs), Color: Tan/Brown/Reddish, Luster: Dull/Earthy, Crystal Structure: Granular/Clastic, 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), Color: Tan/Brown/Reddish, Luster: Dull/Earthy, Crystal Structure: Granular/Clastic, Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accumulation and cementation of sand-sized mineral particles or rock fragments, typically in deserts, riverbeds, or coastal environments over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used as a construction material for buildings and pavers, in glass manufacturing (if high silica content), and as an artistic medium for sculpture.
Geological facts
Sandstone makes up about 20% of all sedimentary rocks on Earth and is a primary reservoir for underground water (aquifers) and petroleum due to its porosity.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its gritty texture (feels like sandpaper) and visible layering (bedding). Found worldwide in sedimentary basins and arid regions.
More like this
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
Fossiliferous Sedimentary Rock
Sedimentary limestone with invertebrate fossil imprint
fossil
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite
sedimentary
Shale
Shale (clastic sedimentary rock)
sedimentary
Shale (or Mudstone/Siltstone)
Sedimentary Mudrock (SiO2, Al2O3 base with clay minerals)
sedimentary