sedimentary

Iron-rich sandstone or lateritic ironstone

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

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness typically 5–7; reddish-brown, earthy to dull/silky luster, granular and porous, with irregular fractures and a pale quartz-rich vein or seam. The image does not show diagnostic crystal faces, so exact identification is approximate.

Identified August 23, 2026More sedimentary →

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At a glance

Common name: Iron-rich sandstone or lateritic ironstone
Scientific name: Ferruginous sandstone/ironstone, chiefly quartz (SiO₂) cemented or stained by iron oxides such as hematite (Fe₂O₃) and goethite (FeO(OH))
Category: sedimentary
Identified: August 23, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

$1–$10 for a common hand specimen; $10–$30 if unusually attractive, heavy, or locally significant.

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 when iron-bearing fluids oxidize and cement sand or weathered soil, commonly in arid, tropical, or strongly weathered landscapes. Usually Cenozoic to older sedimentary/weathering material; age cannot be determined visually.

Uses & applications

Used locally as construction aggregate, road base, riprap, and occasionally ornamental stone. Iron-rich varieties may be collected for color and texture but are generally not gem material.

Geological facts

Its red color commonly comes from hematite and goethite rather than copper. A pale vein may be quartz, calcite, or an iron-depleted fracture fill.

Field identification & locations

Look for a gritty texture, red-brown streak, high density, and possible attraction to a strong magnet if magnetite is present. Common in lateritic terrains and ferruginous sedimentary regions; test streak, hardness, acid reaction, and magnetism for confirmation.