sedimentary

Weathered sandstone fragment

Clastic sandstone, likely quartz-rich (quartz arenite or arkose)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Fine- to medium-grained, tan-brown, dull to slightly earthy luster, with visible sand-sized grains and no obvious crystals or cleavage. Quartz-rich sandstone is about Mohs 6–7; cement type and porosity vary widely.

Identified August 18, 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 accumulated, was compacted, and cemented by silica, calcite, or iron oxides in a river, beach, dune, or shallow-marine environment. Its exact geological age cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Used as building stone, paving, landscaping aggregate, and occasionally carving stone; this fragment has little commercial value.

Geological facts

The rough granular texture and apparent bedding-like surfaces distinguish sandstone from finer mudstone or crystalline igneous rocks.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by gritty texture, sand-sized grains, and commonly visible quartz or feldspar; it may scratch glass if quartz-rich, though cement and weathering affect the test. Common worldwide, especially in sedimentary basins.