Where is Iron Ore (Limonite/Goethite) found?
Limonite/Goethite (Iron Oxide/Hydroxide)
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Open the appIron Ore (Limonite/Goethite) 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 Iron Ore (Limonite/Goethite)
Mesabi Range, Minnesota, USA
Historically a major source of iron ore, including goethite-rich taconite and weathered iron formations.
Pilbara region, Western Australia
World-class iron ore deposits, including significant goethite and hematite ores, often formed from enriched banded iron formations.
Minas Gerais, Brazil
Extensive iron ore deposits, including high-grade hematite and goethite ores, often associated with banded iron formations.
Krivoy Rog, Ukraine
Large iron ore basin with significant goethite and hematite deposits.
Various bog and swamp environments worldwide
Bog iron ore (limonite) forms in modern and ancient wetlands where iron-rich groundwater precipitates hydrated iron oxides.
Collecting tips
- Look for rusty stains. Limonite/goethite often manifests as rusty-brown stains on rocks, soil, and in water bodies, indicating the presence of iron oxidation.
- Check weathered zones. Explore the weathered caps (gossans) of sulfide ore deposits, where limonite/goethite often forms as a residual product.
- Investigate wetlands and bogs. Bog iron ore can be found in marshy areas, often as concretions or layers near the surface.
- Observe streak color. The characteristic yellowish-brown streak is a key diagnostic feature, differentiating it from hematite (red streak) and magnetite (black streak).
- Test for magnetism (weak). While not strongly magnetic like magnetite, some limonite/goethite can exhibit weak magnetism due to inclusions of other iron oxides or heating during formation.
Quick Check
- Color:
- Yellowish-brown to dark brown
- Luster:
- Earthy, dull
- Streak:
- Yellowish-brown
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