mineral

Iron-rich weathered rock or limonite/goethite nodule

Limonite (mixture dominated by goethite, FeO(OH)·nH₂O), possibly with quartz or clay

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Earthy, dull luster; yellow-brown to rusty-brown, irregular and strongly weathered texture. Hardness typically 4–5.5 Mohs, non-cleavable, with a yellow-brown streak and relatively high density; exact identification requires streak and hardness tests.

Identified August 10, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Iron-rich weathered rock or limonite/goethite nodule
Scientific name: Limonite (mixture dominated by goethite, FeO(OH)·nH₂O), possibly with quartz or clay
Category: mineral
Identified: August 10, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $1–$10 for a common specimen; $10–$50 if unusually sculptural, botryoidal, or associated with collectible minerals.

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 as a secondary iron-oxide/hydroxide accumulation during oxidation and weathering of iron-bearing minerals, commonly in soils, veins, and lateritic zones. It has no single geological age and may form at any time after exposure to oxygenated groundwater.

Uses & applications

Used historically as an iron ore and ochre pigment; attractive specimens are collected, but this small rough piece has little commercial value.

Geological facts

Limonite is not a single pure mineral but a field term for hydrated iron oxides. Goethite commonly produces the botryoidal or earthy textures seen in rusty nodules.

Field identification & locations

Common in weathered rock, mine dumps, stream gravels, and iron-rich soils worldwide. A yellow-brown streak, lack of metallic streak, and reddish-brown powder support identification; magnetism may indicate associated magnetite.