sedimentary

Iron-rich laterite or weathered ironstone

Goethite–hematite-bearing ferruginous duricrust; commonly approximated as FeO(OH) and Fe₂O₃

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Brown to reddish-brown, earthy to slightly metallic luster, porous and granular, with no obvious cleavage; hardness is roughly 5–6 for goethite/hematite-rich portions, and specific gravity about 3–4. Dark metallic grains may be magnetite or hematite.

Identified August 24, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed by intense tropical or subtropical weathering that leached soluble minerals and concentrated iron oxides/hydroxides near the surface; typically Cenozoic or younger, though it may mantle much older bedrock.

Uses & applications

Used as iron ore when sufficiently concentrated, pigment, aggregate, and a collector specimen; this particular hand specimen has modest commercial value.

Geological facts

Its rusty color reflects oxidized iron, while black sparkly patches can indicate hematite or magnetite. A strong magnet suggests magnetite; a red-brown streak suggests hematite or iron-rich ochre.

Field identification & locations

Common in tropical regions, especially Australia, India, Brazil, and Africa. Identify it by its rusty color, high density, porous weathered texture, and red-brown streak; distinguish it from slag by its natural irregular fabric and lack of glassy bubbles.