Sandstone is one of the most common types of sedimentary rock, found all across the world. It is composed mainly of sand-sized silicate grains that have been cemented together over time. The most abundant minerals in sandstone are quartz and feldspar, which resist weathering and thus make up the sand grains that eventually form sandstone. These quartz and feldspar grains are … [Read more...] about Unveiling the Secrets of Sandstone: What is this Remarkable Rock?
From Chalk to Travertine: A Journey through Different Limestone Types
Limestone is one of the most common types of sedimentary rock, found throughout the world in various forms. It is composed primarily of the mineral calcite (calcium carbonate), and is formed over long periods of time from the accumulation and compression of shell, coral, algal, and fecal debris. Limestone can be classified into several categories based on how it was formed, … [Read more...] about From Chalk to Travertine: A Journey through Different Limestone Types
Cracking the Code: Ways to Identify my Rock or Mineral
Identifying an unknown rock or mineral can be a challenging yet rewarding experience for any geology enthusiast. With over 4,000 known mineral species, proper identification requires careful observation of physical properties, testing, and comparing findings to established geological resources. While identification from photographs or brief online descriptions is unreliable, … [Read more...] about Cracking the Code: Ways to Identify my Rock or Mineral
Preserving the Past: Exploring Why Fossils are Found in Sedimentary Rock
Fossils are found primarily in sedimentary rock due to the unique conditions present during sedimentary rock formation. Sedimentary rocks form from the accumulation and compaction of sediments such as silt, sand, and shell fragments over the remains or imprints of ancient organisms. The process of sedimentation creates an oxygen-free environment ideal for fossilization, as … [Read more...] about Preserving the Past: Exploring Why Fossils are Found in Sedimentary Rock
The Worth Beneath the Surface: Identifying Valuable Rocks and Minerals
Determining if your rock or mineral is truly valuable requires some detective work. First and foremost, you must properly identify what type of rock or mineral you have. This involves examining qualities like color, streak, hardness, cleavage, crystal shape and more. Proper identification provides clues about the rarity and demand for that particular specimen. Next, assess … [Read more...] about The Worth Beneath the Surface: Identifying Valuable Rocks and Minerals