sedimentary
Hoodoo (Limestone / Siltstone Formation)
Claron Formation (Sedimentary Rock - Limestone, Mudstone, Dolomite)
Mohs hardness: 3 - 4; Color: shades of red, orange, pink, yellow, and white due to iron oxide impurities; Luster: earthy/dull; Structure: layered strata, variable grain size
- Hardness
- 3 - 4
- Luster
- earthy/dull
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness: 3 - 4; Color: shades of red, orange, pink, yellow, and white due to iron oxide impurities; Luster: earthy/dull; Structure: layered strata, variable grain size
Formation & geological history
Formed during the Eocene epoch (50 to 40 million years ago) in ancient lake beds (Lake Claron). Frost wedging, chemical weathering, and rain erosion sculpt these soft sedimentary rock layers into tall, thin spires called hoodoos.
Uses & applications
Primary value is educational, scientific, and tourism-based within national and state parks. Not mined for commercial construction or industrial applications due to structural instability and protected status.
Geological facts
The image shows the famous hoodoos of Bryce Canyon, Utah. Local Paiute legend holds that hoodoos were the Legend People turned to stone by the Coyote god. Frost wedge cycles occur over 200 days a year in this region, constantly reshaping the spires.
Field identification & locations
Identified by distinctive tall, needle- or chimney-like spires made of alternating bands of reddish and pale sedimentary rock. Prominently found on the Colorado Plateau, particularly at Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah, USA. Hand specimens are worthless/illegal to collect from national parks.
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