mineral
Limonite
FeO(OH)·nH2O
Hardness: 4 to 5.5 on the Mohs scale, Color: yellowish-brown, brown, to dark brown, Luster: earthy to submetallic, Crystal structure: amorphous or microcrystalline, 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: yellowish-brown, brown, to dark brown, Luster: earthy to submetallic, Crystal structure: amorphous or microcrystalline, Specific gravity: 2.7 to 4.3
Formation & geological history
Formed as an alteration product of other iron-rich minerals like magnetite and pyrite in weathering environments and sedimentary deposits.
Uses & applications
Historically used as an iron ore and a yellow ochre pigment for paints; also collected as a mineral specimen.
Geological facts
Limonite is not a single distinct mineral, but rather a mixture of related hydrated iron oxide minerals, most commonly goethite and lepidocrocite.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its characteristic yellowish-brown streak; found worldwide in gossans and weathered iron deposits.
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Regolith / Silicate Mineral Aggregate
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Limonite / Goethite (Iron Ore Mineral nodule)
FeO(OH)·nH2O / FeO(OH)
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Schist
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Septarian Pebble
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