It is quite obvious that the now solid rock must at one time have existed in a loose and unconsolidated state, like gravel and shingle.
"Geology"
James Geikie
A peculiar band of sandy strata belonging to the group called Oolite by geologists may be traced through several counties, the sand being for the most part loose and unconsolidated, but becoming stony near Kelloway.
"The Student's Elements of Geology"
Sir Charles Lyell
Lastly, denudation, marine and subaerial, has frequently caused the absence of deposits in one basin of corresponding age to those in the other, and this destructive agency has been more than ordinarily effective on account of the loose and unconsolidated nature of the sands and clays.
"The Student's Elements of Geology"
Sir Charles Lyell