Sandstone

Clastic sedimentary rock

Sand grains pressed into a record of ancient landscapes.

United States

Sample content • provenance shown broadly for demonstration

At a glance

Fast Facts

sedimentary

quartz grains + feldspar + rock fragments

Compaction and cementation of sand-sized sediment

United States

Read the evidence

The Story

Wind, rivers and waves move grains of older rock. When sand is buried, pressure packs the grains together and minerals cement them into sandstone. Ripple marks can preserve the direction of vanished currents.

Make the connection

Where Does It Fit?

Starting material→Compaction and cementation of sand-sized sediment→Sandstone