mineral

Iron-rich stone, possibly hematite or weathered ironstone

Hematite (Fe₂O₃) or limonite/goethite-bearing ironstone

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Dark reddish-brown, dull to subtly glassy, massive and irregular with no visible crystals; hematite has Mohs hardness 5–6.5 and a characteristic red-brown streak, while limonite is softer (about 4–5.5).

Identified August 30, 2026More mineral →

Explore Iron-rich stone, possibly hematite or weathered ironstone in the encyclopedia →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Likely formed by oxidation and concentration of iron minerals during weathering or in sedimentary iron-rich deposits; age cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Iron ores are industrially important, while attractive hematite specimens are collected and occasionally used for carvings or jewelry.

Geological facts

A decisive test is the streak: hematite leaves a red-to-reddish-brown mark on unglazed porcelain, whereas many dark rocks do not. The specimen may also be slag or another iron-rich material, which cannot be excluded visually.

Field identification & locations

Common in iron-rich soils and rocks worldwide, especially around banded iron formations and weathered ore zones. Test streak, magnetism, density, and surface texture; avoid destructive testing if valuable.