Where is Pitted Sandstone found?
Sandstone (with tafoni-like weathering)
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Open the appPitted Sandstone occurs in specific geological environments. Knowing where to look, and in what kind of rock, is the difference between going home empty-handed and finding a great specimen.
Where to find Pitted Sandstone
Southwestern United States
Extensive tafoni formations are found in national parks and monuments such as Zion National Park, Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, and Valley of Fire State Park, where Navajo Sandstone and other Mesozoic sandstones are prevalent.
Coastal Areas Worldwide
Coastal sandstone cliffs and outcrops, particularly in regions with strong sea spray and tidal fluctuations, often exhibit tafoni due to salt weathering. Examples include parts of Australia, California (USA), and the Mediterranean coast.
Deserts and Arid Regions
Many desert environments, characterized by extreme temperature swings and evaporative conditions, are conducive to tafoni formation in sandstone. Examples include the Sahara Desert and parts of the Middle East.
Collecting tips
- Look for Sandstone Outcrops. Pitted sandstone is a weathered form of sandstone, so begin by identifying areas with significant sandstone exposures, such as cliffs, mesas, and rock formations.
- Observe Weathering Patterns. Focus on surfaces that show signs of differential erosion. Look for small depressions, hollows, and larger cavities, especially on vertical or overhanging rock faces. The presence of a 'skin' or harder outer layer surrounding softer, eroded interiors is a common indicator.
- Consider Environmental Factors. Tafoni are often associated with specific environmental conditions. In coastal areas, look for features near the high-tide line or in areas exposed to sea spray. In arid regions, examine rock faces exposed to strong winds and significant temperature variations.
Quick Check
- Color:
- Variable (white, tan, red, brown, gray)
- Luster:
- Dull to earthy
- Streak:
- White (for quartz-rich sandstone)
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