sedimentary
Shale
Mudrock / Pelite
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 3 on Mohs scale. Color ranges from gray to black, red, and brown. Luster is dull to earthy with a very fine-grained, laminated crystal structure and distinct fissility.
- Hardness
- 3 on Mohs scale
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Physical properties
Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale. Color ranges from gray to black, red, and brown. Luster is dull to earthy with a very fine-grained, laminated crystal structure and distinct fissility.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the compaction of silt and clay-sized mineral particles in quiet depositional environments like lakes and ocean basins over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Used in the manufacturing of bricks, cement, ceramics, and as a source rock for oil and natural gas extraction.
Geological facts
Shale is the most abundant sedimentary rock on Earth, making up over 70 percent of sedimentary rock crust. It often preserves exceptional fossils due to its fine-grained layers.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its thin, parallel layers that split easily into thin sheets and its fine-grained texture that feels smooth when powdered. Commonly found worldwide in sedimentary basins.
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Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
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Sandstone
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Shale
Shale (clastic sedimentary rock)
sedimentary
Shale (or Mudstone/Siltstone)
Sedimentary Mudrock (SiO2, Al2O3 base with clay minerals)
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