sedimentary

Weathered iron-rich sandstone or laterite

Ferruginous sandstone; potentially lateritic ironstone, composed mainly of quartz (SiO₂) with iron oxides/hydroxides

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 6–7 for quartz grains, but the weathered mass is friable; reddish-brown, dull to earthy luster, granular texture, and no obvious cleavage. Iron staining and a darker dense vein or crust are visible.

Identified August 9, 2026More sedimentary →

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At a glance

Common name: Weathered iron-rich sandstone or laterite
Scientific name: Ferruginous sandstone; potentially lateritic ironstone, composed mainly of quartz (SiO₂) with iron oxides/hydroxides
Category: sedimentary
Identified: August 9, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

$1–$10 for a common hand specimen; $10–$40 if unusually dense, patterned, or displayed. A precise identification requires a fresh surface and simple density, streak, and magnetic tests.

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 from quartz-rich sediment cemented by iron oxides, or by intense tropical weathering that concentrated iron into laterite. Exact age cannot be determined from the photograph; laterites may form during relatively recent Cenozoic weathering.

Uses & applications

Commonly used locally as road aggregate, fill, building stone, or iron-rich raw material when sufficiently concentrated; ordinary pieces have little jewelry value.

Geological facts

The red-brown color is typically caused by hematite and goethite rather than red quartz. A dark, heavy portion may represent a manganese- or iron-oxide-rich seam, but this requires testing.

Field identification & locations

Look for gritty quartz grains, red-brown powder, high density, and possible attraction to a strong magnet if magnetite is present; a streak test and acid test help distinguish it from basalt or slag. Common in deeply weathered tropical and subtropical terrains.