sedimentary

Weathered iron-rich sedimentary rock (probable laterite/ironstone)

Limonite/goethite-rich ferruginous material; commonly approximated as FeO(OH)·nH₂O with clay and quartz

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Brown to ochre, earthy to dull luster, irregular massive texture, and apparent granular/porous weathering; hardness roughly 4–5.5 Mohs, with no obvious cleavage. Exact identification requires streak, density, and mineral testing.

Identified September 2, 2026More sedimentary →

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At a glance

Common name: Weathered iron-rich sedimentary rock (probable laterite/ironstone)
Scientific name: Limonite/goethite-rich ferruginous material; commonly approximated as FeO(OH)·nH₂O with clay and quartz
Category: sedimentary
Identified: September 2, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Typically $2–$15 for a hand specimen; unusual textures or documented locality specimens may reach $20–$75.

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 and concentration of iron oxides/hydroxides in a tropical or subtropical soil profile, or as ferruginous sedimentary cement. Formation may range from recent weathering to ancient lateritic deposits.

Uses & applications

Used locally as low-grade iron ore, pigment, aggregate, or geological teaching material; generally unsuitable for jewelry unless attractively polished.

Geological facts

Limonite is a mixture rather than a single strict mineral species, while goethite is crystalline. A yellow-brown streak, reddish powder, and strong response to a magnet if magnetite is present support an iron-rich identification.

Field identification & locations

Common in weathered terrains, iron-rich soils, and sedimentary deposits worldwide; test streak on unglazed ceramic, hardness, specific gravity, and acid reaction. The photograph alone cannot distinguish it confidently from iron-stained limestone or breccia.