mineral
Limonite
FeO(OH)•nH2O
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectMohs hardness 4-5.5, yellowish-brown to dark brown color, earthy to submetallic luster, amorphous crystal structure, specific gravity 2.7-4.3.
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness 4-5.5, yellowish-brown to dark brown color, earthy to submetallic luster, amorphous crystal structure, specific gravity 2.7-4.3.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the oxidation and weathering of iron-bearing minerals and rocks in sedimentary environments or hydrothermal veins.
Uses & applications
Historically used as a low-grade iron ore and pigment (ochre), and collected as a mineral specimen.
Geological facts
Limonite is not a true distinct mineral species, but rather a mixture of related hydrated iron oxides like goethite and lepidocrocite.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive yellowish-brown streak and earthy texture; commonly found in gossans above sulfide ore deposits worldwide.
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
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
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous