sedimentary

Sandstone

Sedimentary rock composed mainly of quartz sand

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness on Mohs scale is 6 to 7 (due to quartz grains); colors range from tan, brown, yellow, red, to gray; dull or earthy luster; clastic texture with visible sand grains; specific gravity ranges from 2.2 to 2.8.

Identified August 1, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed by the accumulation, compaction, and cementation of mineral particles or rock fragments, chiefly quartz and feldspar, deposited by water, wind, or ice in environments like deserts, rivers, and beaches over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Commonly used in construction, building facades, paving stones, flagstones, and historically for grinding stones and whetstones.

Geological facts

Sandstone often preserves ripple marks and cross-bedding from ancient environments, providing geologists with clues about prehistoric wind and water directions.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its grainy, sandpaper-like texture and visible sand grains. Found worldwide in regions with ancient sedimentary basins, deserts, and river deltas.