mineral

Limonite (Iron Ore)

Limonite (Hydrous iron(III) oxide-hydroxide mixture, primarily FeO(OH)·nH2O)

Hardness: 4-5.5; Color: Yellowish-brown to dark brown; Luster: Dull to earthy; Crystal structure: Amorphous; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.7-4.3

Hardness: 4-5
Color: Yellowish-brown to dark brown
Luster: Dull to earthy

Identified April 17, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 4-5.5; Color: Yellowish-brown to dark brown; Luster: Dull to earthy; Crystal structure: Amorphous; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.7-4.3

Formation & geological history

Formed as a secondary material through the oxidation and weathering of primary iron-bearing minerals like pyrite, magnetite, and hematite in oxygen-rich environments.

Uses & applications

Historically used as an iron ore; currently used as a natural earth pigment (yellow ochre) in paints and dyes, and for soil amendment.

Geological facts

Limonite is not a true mineral but a mixture of related hydrated iron oxide minerals. It was the primary source of iron for ancient civilizations and is what gives many soils their yellow-brown color.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its characteristic yellowish-brown streak on a porcelain plate and dull, rusty appearance. Often found in bog deposits, gossans (weathered rock caps), and as a staining agent in sedimentary rocks.

Other mineral specimens

See all

Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Schist

Metamorphic

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Green Apatite on Albite

Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]

mineral