Sandstone

geology · rocks · desert

Made from sand grains. Sandstone forms when sand grains get buried deep underground and cemented together by other minerals. Over time, the pressure and minerals turn loose sand into solid rock.

Super common rock. About one quarter of all sedimentary rocks (rocks made from compressed pieces) are sandstone, making it one of Earth's most abundant rock types.

Beautiful and colorful. Sandstone comes in many colors like red, orange, yellow, and tan depending on what minerals are mixed in with the sand grains.

Carves into canyons. Sandstone is soft enough that water and wind can carve it into stunning shapes, which is why many famous canyons and cliffs are made of sandstone.