sedimentary

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

Iron oxides/hydroxides, chiefly limonite/goethite (FeO(OH)·nH₂O), with a probable silicate or clay matrix

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Brown to ochre, earthy and dull, irregularly granular texture; likely Mohs hardness about 4–6, with no visible cleavage and low-to-moderate density. The image is insufficient for confident mineral identification; a reddish-brown streak and attraction to a strong magnet would help test it.

Identified August 14, 2026More sedimentary →

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At a glance

Common name: Weathered iron-rich rock, possibly laterite or limonite-bearing sandstone
Scientific name: Iron oxides/hydroxides, chiefly limonite/goethite (FeO(OH)·nH₂O), with a probable silicate or clay matrix
Category: sedimentary
Identified: August 14, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $1–$10 for a common fragment; $10–$50 for an attractive, labeled locality 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

Formation & geological history

Likely formed by intense weathering and oxidation of iron-bearing rock, producing laterite or limonite-rich material; age depends on its host deposit and cannot be determined visually.

Uses & applications

Usually used as low-grade iron ore, natural pigment, or a geological teaching/collecting specimen; generally unsuitable for jewelry or structural construction.

Geological facts

Iron oxides commonly create yellow, orange, red, and brown colors in soils and rocks. Goethite and limonite are frequent weathering products around sulfide deposits and basaltic or sedimentary rocks.

Field identification & locations

Common in tropical weathering zones, iron-rich soils, gossans, and sedimentary deposits worldwide. Confirm with streak, magnetism, hardness, density, and ideally X-ray diffraction or chemical testing.