sedimentary

Iron-rich sandstone or laterite fragment

Ferruginous sandstone; largely quartz (SiO₂) cemented by iron oxides, especially hematite/goethite

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness typically 5–7 (quartz-rich), earthy orange-brown color, dull to weakly earthy luster, granular texture, and no obvious cleavage; iron staining produces the rusty color. The specimen appears porous and weathered.

Identified August 30, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Likely formed from sand cemented by silica and iron oxides, or from intense tropical weathering that concentrated iron into laterite. Its exact geological age cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Used locally as building stone, aggregate, or iron-rich material; attractive pieces may be collected, but it is generally not a jewelry stone.

Geological facts

The orange coloration is characteristic of hydrated iron oxides such as goethite, while darker red-brown areas may contain hematite. A reddish streak and a weak response to a magnet, if magnetite is present, can support identification.

Field identification & locations

Common in tropical and arid weathering zones and in iron-bearing sedimentary formations worldwide. Test with a steel nail, inspect its sand grains with a loupe, and check whether a fresh surface shows quartz grains and red-brown iron cement.