sedimentary
Moqui Marble (Iron Oxide Concretion)
Iron Oxide Concretion (primarily Limonite/Hematite around a Sandstone center)
Hardness: 5-6 (outer shell); Color: Dark brown to black outer, tan sand interior; Luster: Dull or sub-metallic; Structure: Spherical to ellipsoidal; Specific Gravity: 2.5-4.5.
- Hardness
- 5-6 (outer shell)
- Color
- Dark brown to black outer, tan sand interior
- Luster
- Dull or sub-metallic
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5-6 (outer shell); Color: Dark brown to black outer, tan sand interior; Luster: Dull or sub-metallic; Structure: Spherical to ellipsoidal; Specific Gravity: 2.5-4.5.
Formation & geological history
Formed in the Jurassic-era Navajo Sandstone (approx. 180 million years ago) through groundwater precipitation of iron-bearing minerals around a nucleus (like a small pebble or fossil) in porous rock.
Uses & applications
Primarily used for geological education, rock collecting, and as metaphysical stones (often called shaman stones).
Geological facts
Also known as Moqui Balls or Shaman Stones, these concretions are protected and illegal to collect within National Parks like Zion. They are viewed as sacred by some Native American tribes.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by their distinct spherical shape and dark iron-rich crust resting atop pale sandstone beds. Common in Utah and Arizona.
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