sedimentary

Weathered iron-rich sandstone or laterite

Ferruginous sandstone; predominantly quartz (SiO₂) cemented by iron oxides/hydroxides

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Brown-orange, earthy to dull luster, fine-grained and irregularly weathered; quartz hardness 7, but the porous aggregate is friable. No obvious cleavage or crystal faces; likely low-to-moderate density.

Identified August 30, 2026More sedimentary →

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At a glance

Common name: Weathered iron-rich sandstone or laterite
Scientific name: Ferruginous sandstone; predominantly quartz (SiO₂) cemented by iron oxides/hydroxides
Category: sedimentary
Identified: August 30, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Approximately $2–$15 for a common hand specimen; up to $20–$50 if unusually attractive, labeled, or from a documented locality.

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

Formed from sand or soil enriched and cemented by hematite, goethite, and limonite during prolonged weathering and oxidation, commonly in continental or tropical settings. Exact age cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Usually a study or display specimen; ferruginous sandstone may be used locally as building or paving stone, while laterite is used in construction and road material.

Geological facts

The orange-brown color reflects oxidized iron rather than copper. A reddish-brown streak and magnetic response, if present, can help distinguish iron-rich material from ordinary sandstone.

Field identification & locations

Common in weathered terrains, deserts, and tropical regions. Look for visible sand grains, porous texture, earthy fracture, and orange-red coatings; dilute hydrochloric acid should produce little or no fizz.