Limestone vs Sandstone: What Are They, And What's The Difference?

Limestone and sandstone are stones that have a number of similar properties, and many differences.

Both are sedimentary type rocks that look very much alike.

They are often used in home improvement projects, for paving or construction materials due to their durability.

Limestone and sandstone are also used by many for metaphysical purposes, with each of them having a very different metaphysical function over the other.

Both limestone and sandstone can be found all over the world.

Yet many are confused about which is better when it comes to the two materials.

Learn more about the similarities and differences between these two stones right here.

Limestone vs Sandstone: The Facts

What is Limestone?

Limestone is a sedimentary rock that is found in shallow sections of marine water, usually the ocean.

It is formed in the water, extracted, and used on Earth for a number of purposes.

Limestone can be found in the Caribbean, the Persian Gulf, Pacific Coast Islands, Indian Ocean, and the waters of Indonesia.

When ocean organisms such as shellfish, coral, and algae expire, they leave skeletal remains that form a blanket along the ocean floor.

This becomes a calcium carbonate sediment that is converted into what we call limestone today.

Limestone is a gold and sometimes earth toned stone, but can take a variety of neutral shades.

Due to the calcite and carbon foundations, it often takes on a chalky look.

In home applications it often takes on a number of colors.

Limestone is used for a variety of functions all over the world.

Sandstone is also sometimes confused with quartzite.

What is Sandstone?

Sandstone looks very much like limestone, and is a common stone found across the globe.

It is commonly extracted in the United States, Germany, and South Africa, where there are large quantities of it.

This is a stone that is made from particles of grain that look like sand, and this is where it gets its name from.

Quartz and feldspar are the most common rocks that create sediment that transforms into limestone.

These elements are what gives sandstone a little more sparkle to it than limestone has.

They also give sandstone considerable strength as a rock.

Sandstone can be a number of different colors, and has more variety in shade and tone than limestone does.

Similarities Between Sandstone and Limestone

One key similarity in the limestone vs sandstone race are that they are both incredibly durable stones.

This makes them useful for functions such as patio stone or driveway stone.

They can handle almost any kind of weather and are able to absorb a significant amount of water.

These two stones are also very similar in colors, although sandstone comes in a wider variety of shades.

Durability and weathering capabilities, in addition to home uses, are the biggest similarities between these two stones.

Many people confuse the two because they are used for similar things, and look very similar.

There are some property differences between the two stones.

Differences Between Sandstone and Limestone

A key difference between sandstone and limestone is their origins.

Limestone is formed from calcium carbonate, and sandstone is formed as a result of a variety of particles forming together to make a stone substance.

Sandstone is not ever attributed to coming from one place.

It is formed when a number of different larger stones are eroded and weathered and formed together in layers of sediment.

The textures of limestone and sandstone are also very different.

Limestone is smooth and flat, and has very few bumps or ridges in it.

Sandstone on the other hand often has a ripple effect, or an uneven texture.

Sandstone is a little more water porous than limestone as well, and this contributes to its more uneven texture.

Many home applications can finish the texture of sandstone in order to smooth it out.

That is usually performed by sandblasting.

Even so, sandstone is a less desirable stone for outdoor use as it does not absorb water or any liquids as effectively as limestone does.

This stands to reason considering that limestone is formed from water based organisms, and formed in oceanic beds.

A sandstone countertop in the kitchen may not be the best idea for example, unless you protect it with a glass covering.

That is because sandstone will permanently stain quicker than a limestone counter would.

Why People Confuse Them

People confuse these two stones because they are very similar in appearance, and used for similar things.

They are also similar in price when you are using them for home projects.

Both are very resistant stones that can handle most weathers.

Despite the porous nature of sandstone, it still remains relatively maintenance free.

Over time, you won’t see any changes to the stone, regardless of what you are using it.

That is the case for both sandstone and limestone.

If you have it in your home, the casual observer that knew a little about both stones would not be able to tell the difference right away.

They both have a neutral appearance, and they pair well with almost any interior or fashion design.

What They Are Used For

Limestone and sandstone are used for similar functions, but will vary in purpose when they are used for metaphysical purposes.

Their more widespread use is in home exterior and interior design.

That is because they are both very affordable, and can be cut and shaped to adapt to any home project.

These are versatile stones, that can carry a weight load and also stand the test of time.

Sandstone does have a more porous structure, but that does not impact is durability.

Construction at the White House performed in 1792 and 1800 used Aquia Creek sandstone, which was painted white after its finish.

Sandstone is also found in many original historical buildings in the United States, including the Capitol Building.

For today’s everyday use, sandstone and limestone are used for interior design, exterior design, paving, stairwells, and any room in the home.

They serve as lovely and durable foundations to features in kitchens and bathrooms.

Metaphysical Properties of Limestone

Like many minerals and stones mined from the Earth, limestone is a stone that is often used for healing in the metaphysical realm.

This stone is considered to have properties that include purification, and the production of positive thoughts.

Some say that this stone induces a sense of innocence, and helps us to tap into a field of unconditional love that is centering and grounding.

It is also used for chakra work, specifically the root chakra and the sacral chakra.

This makes limestone a good stone for grounding, and feeling more connected to your roots, when you are using it for metaphysical purposes.

Limestone is also said to be helpful when it comes to overall well-being. Some use it for help with muscle problems and balance.

Metaphysical Properties of Sandstone

Sandstone is a stone used for metaphysical purposes as well.

Many that use it for this function say that it helps in the creative zone.

Sandstone is also considered by many to be a relationship-building stone. It can help with the sacral chakra, and can help with relationship energy.

Sandstone is also said to be a truth stone, and that may be why it nurtures in the relationship zone.

Many consider it to be a clarity stone, and it helps to enlighten in both sight and thought.

The thought modality can often be considered an audio modality in the spiritual plane, and sandstone is said to help encourage truth here.

It is also a humbling stone, and it is said to accomplish this by evening moods.

The energy of unconditional love is more readily available to its recipient when sandstone is used metaphysically.

Buy Sandstone and Limestone Today

Whether you are creating a new garden path, or want to wear some unconditional love, it is a tie for limestone vs sandstone.

These are stones that are very similar in physical properties and are both very durable when used in home design.

From a metaphysical perspective, they both serve very different purposes.

They are often confused due to their appearance, applications, and affordability.

But, despite many similarities, their origins and spiritual function to many are very different.

Invest in these stones today and see the differences for yourself.