Sandstone, the sedimentary rock is composed of small grains
cemented by silica, with felspathic, or calcareous cementing
material. Sandstone is mostly formed in layers and has varied
applications as building stones. The formation of sandstone
is a result of consolidation of sand and held together by
a natural cement, such as silica. The consolidation takes
place when the masses of sand are deposited by wind, water
or other natural forces. The durability of rock depends on
the cementing material. Being homogeneous and soft, sandstone
can be easily carved and chiseled into various artifacts.
The color of the rock is largely determined by the cementing
material – iron oxides for example produces red or reddish-brown
sandstone, and the other materials produce sandstone in the
shades white, gray or yellow.