mineral

Tumbled or cut iron-rich mineral specimen

Likely limonite/goethite (hydrated iron oxides), possibly weathered hematite

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 4–6.5 Mohs; brown, yellow-brown, and dark gray coloration with earthy to submetallic luster. The triangular shape appears cut or naturally fractured; crystal structure is generally poorly crystalline or fibrous rather than visibly crystalline, with no obvious cleavage.

Identified August 11, 2026More mineral →

Explore Tumbled or cut iron-rich mineral specimen in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms through oxidation and weathering of iron-bearing minerals and sulfide deposits, commonly in soil, gossans, and hydrothermal veins. Its exact geological age cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Used primarily as a collector specimen and historically as an iron ore or earth pigment; it has little jewelry value unless polished attractively.

Geological facts

The rusty brown colors reflect hydrated iron oxides, while darker areas may contain hematite or manganese oxides. Surface patterning can resemble a polished meteorite, but the image does not provide enough evidence for meteoritic identification.

Field identification & locations

Common in iron-rich weathering zones worldwide, especially Australia, Brazil, India, and the western United States. A streak test producing yellow-brown to red-brown powder, moderate density, and lack of fusion crust would support limonite/goethite identification.