mineral
Limonite
FeO(OH)·n(H2O)
Hardness: 4 to 5.5 on the Mohs scale, Color: Brown, yellowish-brown, or ochre, Luster: Earthy to submetallic, Crystal Structure: Amorphous (often found in stalactitic, mammillary, or earthy masses), Cleavage: None, Specific Gravity: 2.7 to 4.3
- Hardness
- 4 to 5
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Physical properties
Hardness: 4 to 5.5 on the Mohs scale, Color: Brown, yellowish-brown, or ochre, Luster: Earthy to submetallic, Crystal Structure: Amorphous (often found in stalactitic, mammillary, or earthy masses), Cleavage: None, Specific Gravity: 2.7 to 4.3
Formation & geological history
Formed through the oxidation and weathering of iron-rich minerals and rocks in sedimentary environments, often found in gossans and bog iron deposits.
Uses & applications
Historically used as a pigment (ochre), a low-grade ore of iron, and by mineral collectors.
Geological facts
Limonite is not a true distinct mineral species, but rather a natural mixture of related iron oxide-hydroxide minerals, principally goethite, lepidocrocite, and jarosite.
Field identification & locations
Identified easily by its characteristic yellowish-brown to reddish-brown streak. Commonly found worldwide where iron-bearing minerals have oxidized.
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FeO(OH)·nH2O / FeO(OH)
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