Sandstone is a sedimentary rock composed of sand-size grains of mineral, rock, or organic material. It also contains a cementing material that binds the sand grains together and may contain a matrix of silt- or clay-size particles that occupy the spaces between the sand grains.

Sandstone is one of the most common types of sedimentary rock, and it is found in sedimentary basins throughout the world. Deposits of sand that eventually form sandstone are delivered to the basin by rivers, but may also be delivered by the action of waves or wind. Some sand grains might be organic particles, such as sand and shell debris produced within the basin.

If the sandstone is durable, it might be used to make crushed stone for construction projects. If it has a very high quartz content, it might be crushed and used as a source of silica for glass manufacturing. Layers of sandstone below Earth’s surface can serve as aquifers for groundwater or as a reservoir for oil and natural gas.