sedimentary

Sandstone

Clastic Sedimentary Rock

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale (depending on cement); Color: Tan, brown, yellow, red, grey, pink, white; Luster: Dull to earthy; Crystal Structure: Amorphous/granular (composed of mineral grains); Cleavage: None, fractures irregularly; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale (depending on cement)
Color: Tan, brown, yellow, red, grey, pink, white
Luster: Dull to earthy

Identified July 28, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from the accumulation, compaction, and cementation of mineral particles or rock fragments, chiefly quartz and feldspar, ranging in size from 1/16 to 2 millimeters in diameter. Often deposited in environments like deserts, rivers, and beaches, typically over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Widely used in construction as building material, dimension stone, paving, and formerly for grindstones.

Geological facts

Sandstone is porous and permeable, making it an excellent aquifer for storing groundwater and natural gas. Famous structures like Petra in Jordan and the US Treasury building are carved or built from sandstone.