sedimentary

Iron-rich sandstone or ferruginous rock

Ferruginous sandstone (quartz grains cemented by iron oxides, chiefly hematite and goethite)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Rust-orange, earthy and rough, with a pale gray patch; likely mostly dull, with no visible crystals. Quartz has Mohs hardness 7, but the rock’s hardness varies with cementation; crystal structure is not apparent in the image.

Identified October 3, 2026More sedimentary →

Explore Iron-rich sandstone or ferruginous rock in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Likely formed when iron-rich groundwater cemented sediment grains or stained a pre-existing rock. Such rocks form in many geological periods and environments; age cannot be determined from the photo.

Uses & applications

Commonly used as building or landscaping stone; iron-rich varieties can be iron ore if sufficiently concentrated. This specimen appears to have little commercial value.

Geological facts

Orange-red coloration commonly comes from oxidized iron minerals such as hematite and goethite.

Field identification & locations

The rusty color and rough texture suggest iron staining, but the image is insufficient for a definitive identification. Check for gritty quartz grains and a reddish-brown streak; common occurrences include weathered outcrops and iron-rich sedimentary formations.