sedimentary

Iron-rich laterite (hematitic limonite)

Laterite composed mainly of hematite (Fe₂O₃), goethite (FeO(OH)), and hydrated iron oxides

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically brick-red to reddish-brown, earthy to dull and porous, with uneven botryoidal or nodular texture; hardness about 4–6, opaque, and heavy for its size. Exact identification is uncertain from appearance alone; streak and magnetism tests help.

Identified September 6, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms by intense tropical or subtropical chemical weathering, which leaches silica and concentrates iron and aluminum in residual soil or duricrust. It may be geologically young to Cenozoic, depending on the weathering surface.

Uses & applications

Used as iron ore where sufficiently enriched, and historically as a building material; attractive pieces are inexpensive geological specimens rather than jewelry material.

Geological facts

The red color comes chiefly from finely crystalline hematite and related iron oxides. Some specimens may contain greenish clay minerals or secondary copper minerals, but color alone cannot establish that composition.

Field identification & locations

Common in tropical regions including India, Brazil, Africa, Australia, and Southeast Asia; identify by red-brown powdery streak, high density, and possible weak magnetism. A laboratory or acid test is needed to distinguish it from iron-rich volcanic rock or slag.