sedimentary

Iron-rich weathered rock, possibly laterite or ironstone

Ferruginous laterite/ironstone; primarily goethite (FeO(OH)) and hematite (Fe₂O₃), with clay minerals

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Opaque rusty orange-brown, earthy to dull luster, rounded and fine-grained with no visible crystals or cleavage; estimated Mohs hardness 4–6 and specific gravity roughly 2.5–4.3. The surface appears naturally weathered or possibly polished by tumbling.

Identified August 16, 2026More sedimentary →

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At a glance

Common name: Iron-rich weathered rock, possibly laterite or ironstone
Scientific name: Ferruginous laterite/ironstone; primarily goethite (FeO(OH)) and hematite (Fe₂O₃), with clay minerals
Category: sedimentary
Identified: August 16, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Usually $2–$15 for a small common specimen; approximately $20–$50 if unusually attractive, dense, or provenance-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

Forms through intense chemical weathering and oxidation of iron-bearing rocks, commonly in tropical or subtropical soils; age may range from recent soil formation to ancient lateritic deposits. Exact identification requires streak, hardness, and density tests.

Uses & applications

Used as iron ore when sufficiently rich, pigment, aggregate, and a decorative or educational specimen; generally unsuitable for gemstone jewelry. Common pieces have modest collector value.

Geological facts

The orange-red color comes from hydrated iron oxides, while darker brown areas may contain hematite or manganese oxides. A reddish-brown streak and attraction to a strong magnet would support an iron-rich identification.

Field identification & locations

Common in tropical weathering profiles, Australia, India, Africa, Brazil, and many iron-rich gravel deposits. Test streak on unglazed porcelain, hardness against a steel nail, and inspect for metallic magnetism; the photograph alone cannot distinguish laterite from ironstone or weathered volcanic rock.