mineral

Iron-rich weathered rock, possibly limonite/goethite-bearing laterite

Limonite (amorphous hydrated iron oxides), commonly mixed with goethite (α-FeO(OH)) and hematite

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Brown to yellow-brown, earthy to dull luster, porous and heavily weathered; hardness roughly 4–5.5, variable, with no obvious cleavage and high specific gravity (~3–4). The dark cavities and rusty coating may reflect iron-oxide staining around a former sulfide or carbonate matrix.

Identified August 19, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Iron-rich weathered rock, possibly limonite/goethite-bearing laterite
Scientific name: Limonite (amorphous hydrated iron oxides), commonly mixed with goethite (α-FeO(OH)) and hematite
Category: mineral
Identified: August 19, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Typically $1–$15 for a hand specimen; unusual crystal, ore, or locality specimens may sell for $20–$100.

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 oxidation and weathering of iron-bearing minerals, commonly in tropical lateritic soils, gossans, and altered hydrothermal zones; its age cannot be determined from the photograph. It may also be an iron-rich concretion or weathered ore fragment.

Uses & applications

Used historically as an iron ore and pigment (ochre); attractive pieces are collected, but this specimen appears common and has little jewelry value.

Geological facts

Limonite is a field term rather than a single precisely defined mineral. A yellow-brown streak, reddish-brown powder, and strong attraction to a magnet if hematite/magnetite is present support identification.

Field identification & locations

Common in weathered outcrops, mine gossans, tropical soils, and stream gravels worldwide. Test streak on unglazed porcelain, hardness, density, and acid reaction; definitive identification requires X-ray diffraction or chemical analysis.