sedimentary
Sandstone
Clastic Sedimentary Rock (composed mostly of quartz and/or feldspar)
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs); Color: Yellow, tan, or greenish-grey due to glauconite or iron oxidation; Luster: Dull or earthy; Crystal structure: Granular/fragmental; Cleavage: None (breaks across grains); Specific gravity: 2.2–2.8
- Hardness
- 6-7 (Mohs)
- Luster
- Dull or 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: Yellow, tan, or greenish-grey due to glauconite or iron oxidation; Luster: Dull or earthy; Crystal structure: Granular/fragmental; Cleavage: None (breaks across grains); Specific gravity: 2.2–2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed from the accumulation and lithification of sand-sized mineral grains or rock fragments. This specimen appears to be from a marine or fluvial environment, showing weathered surfaces where iron oxides create the yellowish hue.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in construction as a building material, paving stones, and in the production of glass (if high silica content). It is also a significant reservoir for groundwater and petroleum.
Geological facts
Sandstone makes up about 20-25% of all sedimentary rocks on Earth. Famous monuments like the Red Fort in India and Petra in Jordan are carved from sandstone.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its gritty 'sandpaper' texture when rubbed. It often shows layering (bedding). This specific sample displays 'liesegang rings' or weathering crusts. Found globally in basins and coastal areas.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (primarily SiO2)
sedimentary
Shale or Slaty Mudstone
Argillaceous sedimentary rock
sedimentary
Chert Breccia
Brecciated Chert (Microcrystalline Silica)
sedimentary
Sandstone (Quartz-rich)
Arenite (SiO2)
sedimentary
Sandstone (with man-made markings)
Arenite (composed primarily of Quartz, SiO2)
sedimentary