sedimentary

Iron-rich sandstone or ferruginous laterite

Ferruginous sandstone/laterite, chiefly quartz (SiO₂) cemented or stained by iron oxides (hematite Fe₂O₃, goethite FeO(OH))

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Reddish-brown, earthy to dull luster, fine-grained and rounded from abrasion; likely hardness about 5–7 where quartz-rich, lower in softer iron-oxide areas. No visible crystals or cleavage; density commonly ~2.5–3.5.

Identified September 2, 2026More sedimentary →

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At a glance

Common name: Iron-rich sandstone or ferruginous laterite
Scientific name: Ferruginous sandstone/laterite, chiefly quartz (SiO₂) cemented or stained by iron oxides (hematite Fe₂O₃, goethite FeO(OH))
Category: sedimentary
Identified: September 2, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $1–$10 as a common hand specimen; generally under $20 unless unusually attractive, locality-specific, or polished.

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

Formed by weathering and oxidation of iron-bearing rocks, or deposition of sand later cemented by iron oxides in oxygen-rich soils and sediments. Exact age cannot be determined from the photograph; laterite commonly forms in warm, humid climates and may be relatively young.

Uses & applications

Primarily a common geological specimen or landscaping material; ferruginous sandstone may be used locally as building stone or aggregate, but this piece has little commercial value.

Geological facts

The strong red-orange color comes from oxidized iron rather than copper. Its smoothly rounded shape suggests stream, beach, or industrial-tumbling abrasion.

Field identification & locations

Look for gritty texture, reddish-orange streak or powder, and attraction to a strong magnet only if magnetite is present; an acid test should show little reaction. Common in tropical weathering zones and iron-rich sedimentary terrains worldwide.