mineral

Weathered iron-rich rock, likely limonite/goethite-bearing material

Limonite (hydrated iron oxides; commonly goethite, FeO(OH), with hematite and clay)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Brown-yellow, earthy to dull luster, porous and strongly weathered; hardness about 4–5.5, no obvious cleavage, and typically high specific gravity (approximately 3–4.3).

Identified August 13, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Weathered iron-rich rock, likely limonite/goethite-bearing material
Scientific name: Limonite (hydrated iron oxides; commonly goethite, FeO(OH), with hematite and clay)
Category: mineral
Identified: August 13, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Approximately $1–$10 for a common rough fragment; $20–$100+ if it proves to be an attractive, well-formed goethite specimen.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Brown-yellow, earthy to dull luster, porous and strongly weathered; hardness about 4–5.5, no obvious cleavage, and typically high specific gravity (approximately 3–4.3).

Formation & geological history

Forms through oxidation and hydration of iron-bearing minerals, commonly as a weathering crust, gossan, or soil-concretion material. Its exact geological age cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Used historically as an iron ore and natural yellow-brown pigment; attractive botryoidal or crystallized goethite specimens may be collected, but this rough piece has little commercial value.

Geological facts

“Limonite” is a field term rather than a single precisely defined mineral, because it is a mixture of hydrated iron oxides. Yellow streaks and rusty surfaces commonly indicate oxidized sulfide or iron deposits.

Field identification & locations

Likely identification is supported by the rusty ochre color, porous texture, and heavy-looking appearance; test its yellow-brown streak and compare density. Common in oxidized ore zones worldwide, including Australia, Brazil, India, and the western United States.