mineral
Limonite
FeO(OH)•nH2O
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 4 to 5.5 on the Mohs scale, yellowish-brown to dark brown color, submetallic to earthy luster, amorphous crystal structure with no distinct cleavage, and a specific gravity around 2.7 to 4.3.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 4 to 5.5 on the Mohs scale, yellowish-brown to dark brown color, submetallic to earthy luster, amorphous crystal structure with no distinct cleavage, and a specific gravity around 2.7 to 4.3.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the secondary alteration and weathering of other iron-bearing minerals in oxidizing environments.
Uses & applications
Historically used as a pigment (ochre) and as a minor ore of iron.
Geological facts
Limonite is not a true distinct mineral species, but rather a mixture of related hydrated iron oxide minerals like goethite and akaganeite.
Field identification & locations
Identified easily by its characteristic yellowish-brown streak; commonly found in iron-rich gossans and sedimentary 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