sedimentary
Sandstone (lithic wake/graywacke variety)
Arenite/Greywacke (SiO2 with lithic fragments)
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs); Color: Gray to brownish-gray; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal Structure: Clastic (granular); Cleavage: None (fractures irregularly); Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
- Hardness
- 6-7 (Mohs)
- Color
- Gray to brownish-gray
- 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: Gray to brownish-gray; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal Structure: Clastic (granular); Cleavage: None (fractures irregularly); Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accumulation and lithification of sand-sized mineral particles or rock fragments. This specimen appears to be a graywacke, typically formed in deep-water marine environments via turbidity currents.
Uses & applications
Commonly used as construction aggregate, road base, and occasionally as dimension stone for landscaping or building veneers.
Geological facts
Sandstone makes up about 20% of all sedimentary rocks on Earth. Graywacke varieties are often called 'dirty sandstone' because of the high concentration of clay and diverse rock fragments mixed with quartz.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its gritty texture (feels like sandpaper) and visible grains. It is commonly found in sedimentary basins and mountain belts. Collectors look for unique banding or fossil inclusions.
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