mineral

Likely iron-rich hematite/magnetite pebbles, with one orange iron-oxide pebble

Hematite (Fe₂O₃) and/or magnetite (Fe₃O₄); orange piece likely hematite/goethite

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Small rounded, dark metallic-to-submetallic pebbles with rusty orange-brown patches. Hematite hardness 5–6.5, magnetite 5.5–6.5; both have no obvious cleavage and relatively high density. The image is insufficient to distinguish them confidently.

Identified September 14, 2026More mineral →

Explore Likely iron-rich hematite/magnetite pebbles, with one orange iron-oxide pebble 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: Likely iron-rich hematite/magnetite pebbles, with one orange iron-oxide pebble
Scientific name: Hematite (Fe₂O₃) and/or magnetite (Fe₃O₄); orange piece likely hematite/goethite
Category: mineral
Identified: September 14, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Typically $1–$10 for a handful of common pebbles; attractive, well-crystallized or strongly magnetic specimens may sell for $10–$50.

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

Probably naturally weathered ironstone or ferruginous quartzite fragments, common in iron-rich soils and gravels. These minerals formed by oxidation or concentration of iron-bearing rocks, commonly Precambrian in southern Africa.

Uses & applications

Commonly collected as mineral specimens; hematite is used as an iron ore and pigment, while magnetite is an important iron ore and industrial magnetic material. These pieces are generally not jewelry grade.

Geological facts

A strong magnet is the best quick test: magnetite is strongly magnetic, whereas hematite is usually weakly magnetic or nonmagnetic. Hematite leaves a red-to-reddish-brown streak; magnetite leaves a black streak.

Field identification & locations

The reported Zimbabwe locality is highly plausible for iron-rich gravel and weathered banded-iron-formation material. Test streak on unglazed porcelain, magnetism, and density; a proper identification may require microscopy or chemical testing.