sedimentary

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

Laterite/limonite mixture; primarily hydrated iron oxides such as goethite (FeO(OH)) and iron-rich clay minerals

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Brown to ochre, earthy to dull luster, porous and strongly weathered, with no visible crystal faces; estimated Mohs hardness 3–6 depending on cementation, and typically moderate specific gravity (about 2.5–3.5).

Identified September 6, 2026More sedimentary →

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At a glance

Common name: Weathered iron-rich rock, possibly laterite or limonite-bearing sandstone
Scientific name: Laterite/limonite mixture; primarily hydrated iron oxides such as goethite (FeO(OH)) and iron-rich clay minerals
Category: sedimentary
Identified: September 6, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $2–$15 for a common unprovenanced specimen; $20–$75 if unusually attractive, locality-labeled, or associated with distinctive mineralization.

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 chemical weathering in a warm, humid terrestrial environment, concentrating iron oxides near the surface; age cannot be determined from the photograph and may range from relatively young soil crust to ancient weathered bedrock.

Uses & applications

Generally used as a geological specimen or pigment source; iron-rich laterite can be mined for nickel or iron, while limonite has historically been used as ochre and a minor iron ore.

Geological facts

The rusty coloration comes from oxidized iron, similar to natural rust. Some porous iron-rich specimens can weakly attract a magnet if they contain magnetite.

Field identification & locations

Common in tropical and subtropical regions, especially Australia, India, Brazil, Africa, and Southeast Asia; a reddish-brown streak, earthy texture, and possible yellow-brown powder support identification, but a streak and hardness test are needed.