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Sandstone is a sedimentary rock composed mainly of sand-sized mineral or rock grains. The most common constituent of sandstone is quartz, due to its abundance and durability. Feldspar is another common mineral found in sandstone. The sand grains are cemented together by various minerals, such as silica, calcium carbonate, and iron oxides. These cementing agents can significantly affect the color and properties of the sandstone.

Sandstone forms from the accumulation and lithification of sand. This typically occurs in environments where sand is transported and deposited, such as riverbeds, beaches, deserts, and shallow marine settings. Over geological time, the weight of overlying sediments and the presence of cementing minerals cause the loose sand grains to compact and solidify into rock. The texture of sandstone can vary depending on the size, shape, and sorting of the sand grains, as well as the type and amount of cement.

The appearance of sandstone can range widely in color, including shades of red, pink, yellow, brown, gray, and white. These colors are often determined by the mineral composition and the presence of impurities, such as iron oxides, which can impart reddish or yellowish hues. Sandstone has been used for centuries as a building material, valued for its workability and aesthetic appeal. It is also used in landscaping and for decorative purposes.