Where is Limonite found?
Limonite (hydrous iron oxide)
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Open the appLimonite occurs in specific geological environments. Knowing where to look, and in what kind of rock, is the difference between going home empty-handed and finding a great specimen.
Where to find Limonite
Mesabi Range, Minnesota, USA
Historically a major source of iron ore, including limonite, formed from the weathering of taconite.
Krivoy Rog, Ukraine
Significant iron ore deposits, where limonite is a common component of the weathered iron formations.
Lorraine, France
Famous for its oolitic iron ores, which are largely composed of limonite.
Cuba
Extensive lateritic nickel-cobalt-iron deposits where limonite is a major constituent.
Brazil
Large deposits of lateritic iron ore, often rich in limonite, particularly in the 'Iron Quadrangle' region.
Collecting tips
- Look for Weathered Iron Deposits. Limonite is a secondary mineral, so search in areas where primary iron-bearing minerals (like pyrite, siderite, or magnetite) have undergone significant weathering and oxidation. Gossans (iron-stained caps over sulfide ore bodies) are excellent places to look.
- Check Boggy or Swampy Areas. Bog iron deposits, which are accumulations of limonite in wetlands, are common. Look for reddish-brown to yellowish-brown crusts or nodules in these environments.
- Examine Lateritic Soils. In tropical and subtropical regions, lateritic soils, which are rich in iron and aluminum oxides, often contain significant amounts of limonite.
- Observe Color and Streak. The characteristic yellow-brown streak is a key identifier. Even if the specimen appears dark, its streak will be yellowish-brown.
- Test for Hardness. Limonite is relatively soft (4-5.5 on Mohs scale), so it can be scratched by a steel file but will scratch copper.
Quick Check
- Color:
- Yellow, brown, reddish-brown, dark brown to black
- Luster:
- Dull, earthy, submetallic
- Streak:
- Yellowish-brown
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