mineral

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

Limonite/goethite mixture, commonly FeO(OH)·nH₂O, with possible quartz and iron oxides

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Brown-golden, earthy to dull/submetallic luster, irregular fracture, and visibly porous or weathered texture. Estimated hardness is about 4–6 depending on quartz content; specific gravity commonly 3.0–4.3. Exact identification requires streak and chemical testing.

Identified August 15, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Weathered iron-rich rock, possibly laterite or limonite-bearing quartzite
Scientific name: Limonite/goethite mixture, commonly FeO(OH)·nH₂O, with possible quartz and iron oxides
Category: mineral
Identified: August 15, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $1–$10 as a common rough specimen; potentially $20–$100 if distinctive, crystalline, or associated with valuable minerals.

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 oxidation and weathering of an iron-bearing parent rock, producing goethite, limonite, and hematite. Such material is generally geologically young relative to its source rock and occurs in tropical soils, weathering zones, and iron-rich veins.

Uses & applications

Iron oxides are mined as iron ore and used in pigments, abrasives, and specimen collecting; this rough piece has little commercial value unless analytical testing reveals unusual mineralization.

Geological facts

A yellow-brown streak and reddish-brown powder strongly support limonite/goethite, while a red-to-black streak suggests hematite or magnetite. The gold-like color is likely iron staining rather than native gold.

Field identification & locations

Common in iron-rich weathering zones worldwide, including Australia, Brazil, India, and Africa. Test with an unglazed ceramic tile, magnet, and hardness comparison; gold requires density, malleability, and assay confirmation.