mineral

Weathered iron-rich stone, possibly limonite-bearing sandstone or laterite

Limonite/goethite-rich material; composition commonly FeO(OH)·nH₂O with clay and quartz impurities

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Brown-yellow, dull to earthy luster, irregular massive texture, and no visible crystal faces or cleavage; hardness is variable, about 4–6 Mohs, with moderate to high density. The rounded, pitted surface suggests strong weathering or concretion formation.

Identified August 16, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Weathered iron-rich stone, possibly limonite-bearing sandstone or laterite
Scientific name: Limonite/goethite-rich material; composition commonly FeO(OH)·nH₂O with clay and quartz impurities
Category: mineral
Identified: August 16, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

$1–$10 for a common hand specimen; up to roughly $20–$50 if unusually shaped, locality-labeled, or aesthetically polished.

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 oxidation and hydration of iron-bearing minerals near Earth’s surface, producing an iron-oxide crust or concretion; age cannot be determined from the photograph. Common in lateritic soils, weathered rock zones, and iron-rich sedimentary deposits.

Uses & applications

Used historically as an iron ore and natural ochre pigment; attractive polished pieces may be kept as inexpensive geological specimens, but this appearance has little gem value.

Geological facts

Limonite is a field term rather than a single precisely defined mineral, commonly representing mixtures dominated by goethite and related iron oxides. A yellow-brown streak on unglazed porcelain would support identification.

Field identification & locations

Common in iron-rich weathering environments worldwide, including tropical laterite and gossan zones; test streak, density, and magnetism, and compare with sandstone or clay matrix before identification.