sedimentary

Iron-rich concretion or weathered ironstone

Goethite–hematite-bearing ferruginous concretion; exact identification requires testing

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness approximately 5–6.5 Mohs; rusty brown, earthy to dull/submetallic luster, irregular granular texture, and no obvious cleavage. The rounded form and dark iron-oxide patches suggest a dense, weathered concretion rather than a crystal.

Identified August 17, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Likely formed when iron minerals cemented sediment around a nucleus during groundwater alteration, followed by weathering and rounding; age depends on its host deposit. Common in soils, river gravels, sedimentary beds, and lateritic environments.

Uses & applications

Primarily a collecting specimen or educational sample; ironstone may be used locally as low-grade iron ore, aggregate, or decorative material, but this small piece has no practical industrial value.

Geological facts

Goethite and hematite commonly produce red-brown streaks and earthy coatings. A strong reddish-brown streak on unglazed ceramic and noticeable density support an iron-rich composition.

Field identification & locations

Commonly found in Australia, India, Brazil, Africa, and many sedimentary regions worldwide; identify with streak, magnetism, density, and a fresh broken surface. It could also be a terrestrial iron-rich pebble, not a meteorite.