mineral
Weathered iron-rich rock (probable limonite/goethite)
Limonite: hydrated iron oxides, chiefly goethite (FeO(OH)) and hematite (Fe₂O₃)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectYellow-brown to rusty orange, earthy to dull/submetallic luster, irregular porous texture, and no visible cleavage; hardness typically 4–5.5 Mohs, with a yellow-brown streak and relatively high density (~3–4.3).
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Physical properties
Yellow-brown to rusty orange, earthy to dull/submetallic luster, irregular porous texture, and no visible cleavage; hardness typically 4–5.5 Mohs, with a yellow-brown streak and relatively high density (~3–4.3).
Formation & geological history
Forms through oxidation and weathering of iron-bearing minerals, commonly producing an iron-oxide gossan or concretion; it may range from modern weathering to ancient deposits of any geological age.
Uses & applications
Used historically as iron ore and as ochre pigment; attractive pieces are collected, but this rough specimen has little commercial value.
Geological facts
Limonite is not a single well-defined mineral species but a mixture of hydrated iron oxides. Goethite-rich material often develops botryoidal, stalactitic, or earthy forms.
Field identification & locations
Look for rusty yellow-brown color, heavy feel, earthy surface, and yellow-brown streak; it may weakly attract a magnet if magnetite is present. Common in soils, mine gossans, laterites, and weathered iron deposits worldwide.
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