sedimentary
Moqui Marble (Shaman Stone)
Iron Oxide Concretion (Goethite/Hematite shell with Sandstone core)
Hardness: 5-5.5 (outer shell); Color: Dark brown to rusty black; Luster: Dull to sub-metallic; Structure: Spherical to elliptical concretion; Specific Gravity: 3.3-4.3
- Hardness
- 5-5
- Color
- Dark brown to rusty black
- Luster
- Dull to sub-metallic
Identified More sedimentary →
Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 5-5.5 (outer shell); Color: Dark brown to rusty black; Luster: Dull to sub-metallic; Structure: Spherical to elliptical concretion; Specific Gravity: 3.3-4.3
Formation & geological history
Formed through precipitation of iron-rich minerals from groundwater flowing through permeable sandstone, typically within the Navajo Sandstone formation (Jurassic period, approx. 180-190 million years old).
Uses & applications
Used primarily as decorative collector specimens and in metaphysical practices (shaman stones). Some are used in geological education to study fluid flow in sedimentary rock.
Geological facts
Legend says the spirits of Hopi ancestors (Moqui) come to earth to play games with these 'marbles' at night. They are legally protected in many areas like Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.
Field identification & locations
Identify by their distinct spherical or acorn shape, heavy weight for their size, and rough iron-rich exterior. Most commonly found in the desert Southwest of the United States (Utah/Arizona). Collectors should look for unbroken shells and unusual shapes.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Shale or Slaty Mudstone
Argillaceous sedimentary rock
sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (primarily SiO2)
sedimentary
Chert Breccia
Brecciated Chert (Microcrystalline Silica)
sedimentary
Sandstone (Quartz-rich)
Arenite (SiO2)
sedimentary
Sandstone (with man-made markings)
Arenite (composed primarily of Quartz, SiO2)
sedimentary