sedimentary

Weathered sandstone fragment

Quartz-rich sandstone, likely iron-oxide-stained litharenite

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 6–7 for quartz grains; tan to yellow-brown, earthy/matt luster, visibly granular texture, and no obvious cleavage. The irregular porous surface and rusty coloration suggest iron-oxide cement or weathering.

Identified August 13, 2026More sedimentary →

Explore Weathered sandstone fragment in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed when sand-sized grains—mainly quartz, with possible feldspar and rock fragments—were deposited, compacted, and cemented in a river, beach, dune, or shallow-marine environment. Its exact geological age cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Common sandstone is used as building stone, paving, aggregate, and decorative material; this small weathered piece has little practical or jewelry value.

Geological facts

Iron oxides such as hematite and goethite commonly produce yellow, orange, and red sandstone colors. The specimen may also be a weathered piece of iron-rich volcanic or metamorphic rock, which cannot be confirmed visually.

Field identification & locations

Look for individual sand grains, gritty texture, and scratching by steel; sandstone typically does not fizz with dilute hydrochloric acid unless carbonate cement is present. Common worldwide, especially in sedimentary basins.