sedimentary

Sedimentary Rock

Sedimentary rock (lithified sediment)

Hardness varies from 2 to 7 depending on mineral composition; colors range widely; dull to earthy luster; clastic or crystalline structure.

Identified October 30, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Hardness varies from 2 to 7 depending on mineral composition; colors range widely; dull to earthy luster; clastic or crystalline structure.

Formed through the accumulation, compaction, and cementation of mineral particles, organic matter, or chemical precipitates over millions of years.

Widely used in construction, aggregate, road building, and as a source of fossil fuels and industrial minerals.

Sedimentary rocks cover about 75% of the Earth's surface and contain almost all the planet's fossil record.

Identified by distinct visible layers or strata; commonly found in riverbeds, deserts, and coastal areas.

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

Fossiliferous Sedimentary Rock

Sedimentary limestone with invertebrate fossil imprint

Sandstone or Siltstone

Arenite (if sandstone)

Sandstone

Arenite

Shale

Shale (clastic sedimentary rock)

Shale (or Mudstone/Siltstone)

Sedimentary Mudrock (SiO2, Al2O3 base with clay minerals)