sedimentary

Iron-rich weathered rock (probable laterite or ironstone)

Goethite–hematite-bearing ironstone; approximately FeO(OH) and Fe₂O₃

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 5–6.5 Mohs; dark reddish-brown, earthy to submetallic luster, massive texture, no obvious cleavage, and high density. The irregular cavities and rusty surface reflect weathering and iron-oxide enrichment.

Identified August 10, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Likely formed by intense chemical weathering and lateritic concentration of iron minerals, commonly during prolonged tropical or subtropical weathering; its exact age cannot be determined visually. It may also be a weathered ferruginous concretion or iron-rich boulder transported into the gravel bed.

Uses & applications

Used locally as iron ore, pigment, aggregate, or landscaping stone when sufficiently iron-rich; generally has little jewelry value.

Geological facts

The red-brown color comes mainly from hematite and goethite. A streak test on unglazed porcelain may produce a reddish-brown to yellow-brown streak, and a strong magnet response suggests magnetite or maghemite content.

Field identification & locations

Look for unusually heavy weight, rusty red-brown coloration, earthy fracture, and possible magnetic response; common in lateritic terrains, ironstone formations, and stream gravels worldwide. Definitive identification requires streak, magnetism, density, and ideally X-ray or chemical testing.