mineral
Limonite
Hydrated iron(III) oxide-hydroxide, FeO(OH)·nH2O
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectMohs hardness 4 to 5.5, yellowish-brown to dark brown color, earthy to sub-metallic luster, amorphous crystal structure with no true cleavage, specific gravity 2.7 to 4.3.
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness 4 to 5.5, yellowish-brown to dark brown color, earthy to sub-metallic luster, amorphous crystal structure with no true cleavage, specific gravity 2.7 to 4.3.
Formation & geological history
Forms as a secondary mineral resulting from the weathering and oxidation of other iron-bearing minerals in sedimentary environments or hydrothermal veins.
Uses & applications
Historically used as a low-grade iron ore and as a natural earth pigment for yellow and brown ochre paints.
Geological facts
Limonite is not a distinct mineral species, but rather a mixture of related hydrated iron oxides, most commonly goethite, lepidocrocite, and jarosite.
Field identification & locations
Identified easily by its distinctive yellowish-brown streak; commonly found in oxidized zones of ore deposits worldwide.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Limonite
FeO(OH)•nH2O
mineral
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic