sedimentary
Sandstone (lithic wacke)
Arenite / Lithic Wacke (mostly SiO2 with rock fragments)
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs); Color: Tan, brownish-grey; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal structure: Granular/Clastic; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
- Hardness
- 6-7 (Mohs)
- Color
- Tan, brownish-grey
- Luster
- Dull/Earthy
Identified More sedimentary →
Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs); Color: Tan, brownish-grey; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal structure: Granular/Clastic; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accumulation and cementation of sand-sized mineral grains or rock fragments. This specimen appears to be a clastic sedimentary rock formed in a terrestrial or shallow marine environment during various geological ages.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in construction, as a building stone, in paving, and as an industrial abrasive. Low value for jewelry but significant in architectural history.
Geological facts
Sandstone accounts for about 10-20% of the Earth's sedimentary rocks. Many sandstone formations are excellent reservoirs for water, oil, and natural gas due to their porosity.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its 'gritty' feel (like sandpaper) and visible grains. Often found in layered outcrops or riverbeds. It will not fizz with acid unless it has a calcitic cement.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (primarily SiO2)
sedimentary
Chert Breccia
Brecciated Chert (Microcrystalline Silica)
sedimentary
Sandstone Grain
Clastic Sedimentary Rock Grain (SiO2 dominated)
sedimentary
Shale or Slaty Mudstone
Argillaceous sedimentary rock
sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite
sedimentary