sedimentary

Iron-stained sandstone or weathered ironstone

Ferruginous sandstone; chiefly quartz (SiO₂) cemented or coated by iron oxides such as hematite (Fe₂O₃) and goethite (FeO(OH))

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically Mohs 6–7 for quartz grains, with variable toughness and porosity; orange-red to yellow-brown, earthy to dull/subvitreous luster, and possible faint sedimentary layering. The photograph shows a rough, granular, heavily iron-oxide-stained specimen.

Identified August 7, 2026More sedimentary →

Explore Iron-stained sandstone or weathered ironstone in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

At a glance

Common name: Iron-stained sandstone or weathered ironstone
Scientific name: Ferruginous sandstone; chiefly quartz (SiO₂) cemented or coated by iron oxides such as hematite (Fe₂O₃) and goethite (FeO(OH))
Category: sedimentary
Identified: August 7, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $1–$10 for a common hand specimen; up to $20–$50 if unusually patterned, dense, or locality-labeled.

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

Formed when quartz-rich sand was lithified and later impregnated or cemented by oxidized iron-bearing fluids; the orange surface reflects weathering in an oxygen-rich environment. Exact age cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Used locally as aggregate, building stone, road material, or pigment source; attractive pieces may be collected, but this specimen has little gem value.

Geological facts

Iron oxides commonly produce vivid rust-red, orange, and yellow coloration and can form Liesegang-style bands or patches in porous sandstone.

Field identification & locations

Look for visible sand grains, gritty texture, uneven fracture, and orange-red streaking; a steel nail usually does not scratch quartz grains, while an unglazed porcelain streak may be yellow-brown to red. Common in arid and oxidizing sedimentary terrains worldwide.