mineral

Limonite with Pyrite

Hydrated Iron Oxide Hydroxide, FeO(OH)·nH2O

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 4 to 5.5 on the Mohs scale; Color: Yellow-brown, dark brown, to nearly black; Luster: Earthy, submetallic, or dull; Crystal structure: Amorphous or microcrystalline; Cleavage: None

Hardness: 4 to 5
Color: Yellow-brown, dark brown, to nearly black
Luster: Earthy, submetallic, or dull

Identified August 7, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 4 to 5.5 on the Mohs scale; Color: Yellow-brown, dark brown, to nearly black; Luster: Earthy, submetallic, or dull; Crystal structure: Amorphous or microcrystalline; Cleavage: None

Formation & geological history

Forms as a secondary mineral resulting from the oxidation and weathering of various iron-bearing minerals, commonly pyrite, magnetite, and hematite, in hydrothermal veins or sedimentary deposits.

Uses & applications

Historically used as a pigment (ochre), a minor ore of iron, and commonly collected by mineral enthusiasts.

Geological facts

Limonite is not a distinct mineral species, but rather a natural mixture of related iron oxide minerals, most commonly goethite, lepidocrocite, and jarosite.

Field identification & locations

Can be identified by its distinctive yellowish-brown streak on an unglazed porcelain plate and earthy texture. Often found in weathered zones of ore deposits globally.