sedimentary

Iron-rich sandstone or ferruginous quartzite

Ferruginous sandstone, likely limonite/goethite-cemented quartz sandstone (SiO₂ with FeO(OH)/Fe₂O₃)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Coarse, blocky specimen with rusty orange-brown iron staining, granular texture, and dull to slightly earthy luster. Quartz-rich varieties have Mohs hardness about 6–7; iron-oxide-rich surfaces may be softer and leave a yellow-brown streak.

Identified August 23, 2026More sedimentary →

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At a glance

Common name: Iron-rich sandstone or ferruginous quartzite
Scientific name: Ferruginous sandstone, likely limonite/goethite-cemented quartz sandstone (SiO₂ with FeO(OH)/Fe₂O₃)
Category: sedimentary
Identified: August 23, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Approximately $5–$25 for a common hand specimen; up to $30–$75 if unusually aesthetic, dense, or locality-documented.

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 when quartz sand was lithified and later cemented or stained by oxidized iron-bearing groundwater; the exact age cannot be determined from the image. Weathering commonly concentrates goethite and limonite near the surface.

Uses & applications

Used locally as building or paving stone and occasionally as a low-grade iron ore; attractive pieces may be collected as natural specimens, though it is not normally a gemstone.

Geological facts

The vivid orange color is produced mainly by hydrated iron oxides, especially goethite and limonite. A fresh broken surface can reveal pale quartz grains beneath the weathered iron-rich rind.

Field identification & locations

Common in weathered sedimentary terrains, ironstone beds, and lateritic environments worldwide. Confirm with a close-grained sand texture, a yellow-brown streak, and acid resistance; a hardness test distinguishes quartz-rich material from soft ironstone.