sedimentary

Iron-rich laterite or weathered ironstone

Laterite, likely limonitic goethite–hematite material

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Brown-orange, earthy to dull luster, irregular massive texture, and apparent porous/weathered surface; hardness about 4–6 Mohs, with variable density and no visible cleavage. Dark gray patches may be iron oxides or included host rock.

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 oxides and hydroxides; commonly Cenozoic or younger, though it can overlie much older bedrock.

Uses & applications

Used locally as road aggregate, building stone, pigment, and low-grade iron ore; ordinary hand specimens have little jewelry value.

Geological facts

The orange-red color chiefly reflects goethite, limonite, and hematite. A reddish-brown streak and attraction to a strong magnet, if present, support an ironstone identification.

Field identification & locations

Common in tropical weathering profiles, especially India, Africa, Australia, Brazil, and Southeast Asia. Field confirmation requires a streak test, hardness test, magnet test, and ideally chemical or microscopic analysis; the photo alone cannot distinguish laterite from weathered iron-rich rock with certainty.