sedimentary

Weathered iron-rich rock, likely limonite-bearing sandstone or laterite

Limonite/goethite-rich ferruginous rock; composition commonly FeO(OH)·nH₂O with quartz and clay minerals

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Brown to rusty-orange, earthy to dull-submetallic luster, irregular granular texture, and no visible crystal cleavage. Typical hardness is about 4–5.5 Mohs, though porous weathered pieces may be softer; specific gravity is variable, commonly 2.7–4.3.

Identified August 10, 2026More sedimentary →

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At a glance

Common name: Weathered iron-rich rock, likely limonite-bearing sandstone or laterite
Scientific name: Limonite/goethite-rich ferruginous rock; composition commonly FeO(OH)·nH₂O with quartz and clay minerals
Category: sedimentary
Identified: August 10, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

$1–$10 for a small common weathered specimen; higher only if tied to a documented locality or unusual ore texture.

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

Formation & geological history

Forms through intense chemical weathering and oxidation of iron-bearing minerals, concentrating hydrated iron oxides in soils, gravels, and sedimentary horizons. It may range from recent weathering products to deposits formed over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Commonly used as an iron ore when sufficiently concentrated, and historically as a natural ochre pigment; this small specimen has mainly educational or collector value.

Geological facts

The brown material is likely a mixture rather than a single mineral; “limonite” is a field term for poorly crystalline hydrated iron oxides. Strongly magnetic behavior, if present, may indicate associated magnetite or maghemite.

Field identification & locations

Identify by rusty brown color, earthy texture, heavy feel, and a yellow-brown streak; it may stain hands or unglazed porcelain. Common in tropical laterites, iron-rich soils, weathered outcrops, and oxidized ore zones worldwide; exact identification would require streak, magnetism, and hardness tests.