Hobbies And Interests
Formation
Sandstone is formed just about anywhere there is water and even in areas with no water, such as deserts. It is formed under pressure over millions of years from the fine sediment of river basins and lakes or desert sands. The fine particles of sand are fused together and cemented with other minerals, such as granite or quartz which have seeped into the layers. These different minerals that are mixed in with the sand determine what type of sandstone it is.
Types
There are three main types of sandstone -- quartz, arkose and lithic. Quartz is one of the most common substances on the earth's surface. Sandstone that has been in the depositing sedimentary basin for very long periods is usually quartz sandstone. Arkose sandstone has much higher levels of fieldspar -- another common geological substance. Arkose sandstone indicates a much shorter time in the depositional basin and is usually found in basins caused by tectonic activity. The third type is lithic -- found in areas of rapid erosion and arid or temperate climates and is also known as greywacke.
Color and Texture
Sandstone comes in many different colors and textures. Depending on what type it is and its geological make-up, it can be grey, red, white and sometimes pink or yellow. It is almost soft in texture and is medium grained. Generally the grains tend to be all of a similar size and are sub-angular or well-rounded.
Uses
Sandstone has many uses, especially in the building industry. Its ability to be easily cut, polished and carved means it is easy to work with and used everywhere from decorative or functional stone in buildings, paving stones, headstones, monuments and tiles. Some types contain silica and this can be used to make glass. As well, a variety of valuable mineral deposits can be found within sandstone deposits such as uranium, gold and diamonds and as such, it is mined for its economic value.