sedimentary
Weathered Sandstone
Quartz Arenite / Clastic Sedimentary Rock
Hardness varies from 6 to 7 (due to quartz grains), colors range from brown, tan, reddish to yellowish due to iron oxide staining, dull to earthy luster, granular texture, specific gravity around 2.2 to 2.6.
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Physical properties
Hardness varies from 6 to 7 (due to quartz grains), colors range from brown, tan, reddish to yellowish due to iron oxide staining, dull to earthy luster, granular texture, specific gravity around 2.2 to 2.6.
Formation & geological history
Formed by the accumulation, compaction, and cementation of mineral particles or rock fragments, often in desert, beach, or river environments over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in construction, as dimension stone, building facades, paving, and sometimes in the manufacture of glass and silica products.
Geological facts
Sandstone formations can act as excellent aquifers and reservoirs for oil and natural gas due to their porous nature. Famous monuments worldwide, including parts of Petra and many historic cathedrals, are built from sandstone.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its visible sand-sized grains and gritty texture. Common worldwide in sedimentary basins, river valleys, and arid regions.
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Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Fossiliferous Concretion
Septarian Concretion containing Brachiopods/Crinoids
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Quartz pebble
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
sedimentary
Generic Pebble / Rock Fragment
Lithic fragment / Weathered rock
sedimentary
Banded Siltstone / Mudstone Pebble
Siltstone / Argillite
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Sedimentary Sandstone
Arenite (Sedimentary Rock)
sedimentary