mineral

Iron-rich laterite or limonite/goethite specimen

Hydrated iron oxides/hydroxides, chiefly goethite (FeO(OH)) and limonite (variable FeO(OH)·nH₂O), possibly hematite (Fe₂O₃)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Earthy to submetallic luster; orange, ochre, brown, and rusty-red color; typically massive and noncrystalline, with hardness about 4–5.5 (goethite) and specific gravity roughly 3.3–4.3. The surface appears porous and iron-stained, but an image cannot confirm mineral identity.

Identified September 16, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Iron-rich laterite or limonite/goethite specimen
Scientific name: Hydrated iron oxides/hydroxides, chiefly goethite (FeO(OH)) and limonite (variable FeO(OH)·nH₂O), possibly hematite (Fe₂O₃)
Category: mineral
Identified: September 16, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Approximately $5–$30 for a common hand specimen; $30–$100+ for unusually botryoidal, crystalline, or locality-documented material.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms by intense weathering and oxidation of iron-bearing rocks or sulfide ores, commonly in tropical laterite profiles, soil horizons, and gossans. These deposits may be geologically young relative to their source rocks, ranging from Recent weathering to ancient lateritic surfaces.

Uses & applications

Used historically as iron ore and natural ochre pigment; attractive pieces are collected, but this specimen is unlikely to have significant jewelry value.

Geological facts

A reddish-brown to yellow streak on unglazed porcelain supports iron oxides; goethite commonly forms botryoidal, fibrous, or earthy masses. A magnet may show weak attraction if magnetite is present, while acid generally produces little reaction.

Field identification & locations

Common in weathered iron deposits worldwide, including Australia, Brazil, India, Africa, and the southwestern United States. Test streak, hardness, density, and magnetism; avoid assuming it is meteorite material from appearance alone.