mineral

Weathered iron-rich pebble

Likely limonite/goethite-bearing rock; exact identification requires testing

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Yellow-brown, earthy to dull luster, irregularly rounded and possibly iron-stained; hardness approximately 4–5.5 Mohs, with no visible crystal cleavage. The dark lines may be fractures, inclusions, or surface coatings.

Identified September 2, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Likely formed by weathering and oxidation of an iron-bearing rock or sulfide mineral, producing goethite and limonite; age cannot be determined from the image. Such material commonly accumulates in stream gravels and soil horizons.

Uses & applications

Mostly a common collecting specimen or indicator of iron-rich geology; iron oxides have historically been used as pigments and minor iron ore, but this pebble has no evident commercial value.

Geological facts

Goethite and limonite are commonly responsible for ochre-yellow, orange, and brown coloration in soils and rocks. A streak test on unglazed porcelain would likely produce a yellow-brown streak.

Field identification & locations

Common in streambeds, lateritic soils, and weathered mineralized zones worldwide. Test streak, hardness, magnetism, and density; a strong red-brown streak supports iron oxides, while fizzing would indicate carbonate material.