sedimentary

Iron-rich lateritic soil / weathered ferruginous rock

Laterite, primarily hydrated iron oxides (goethite/limonite) with clay minerals and quartz

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Brown to reddish-brown, earthy and dull, porous, friable, and noncrystalline in appearance; typically Mohs hardness about 2–5 depending on cementation, with no obvious cleavage. The image shows loose, crumbly material rather than a definitive hand specimen.

Identified September 1, 2026More sedimentary →

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At a glance

Common name: Iron-rich lateritic soil / weathered ferruginous rock
Scientific name: Laterite, primarily hydrated iron oxides (goethite/limonite) with clay minerals and quartz
Category: sedimentary
Identified: September 1, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Usually negligible to about $5–$20 for labeled educational specimens; ore-grade or polished collector pieces may sell for $20–$100+.

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 through intense tropical or subtropical chemical weathering, which leaches silica and concentrates iron and aluminum oxides; deposits commonly develop over millions of years on stable land surfaces. It may harden into ferricrete when iron oxides cement the soil.

Uses & applications

Used locally as a construction material, brick or road aggregate feedstock, and source material for iron or nickel laterite ores; attractive hardened pieces can be collected, but this loose material has little gem value.

Geological facts

Its red-brown color mainly reflects iron oxides, especially goethite and hematite. Composition and properties vary greatly with the original bedrock and degree of weathering.

Field identification & locations

Identify by earthy texture, rusty coloration, weak cohesion, and staining; a streak, magnet test, acid test, and laboratory analysis help distinguish it from clay or ordinary soil. Common in humid regions including India, Brazil, Africa, Southeast Asia, and Australia.