What's That Rock?Goethite
Also called: limonite
A common rusty-brown iron oxide hydroxide. It forms the bulk of yellow-brown rust coatings and bog iron.
How to identify Goethite
- Streak is yellow-brown, unlike hematite's red-brown
- Rounded, kidney-shaped masses
- Dark surface with a silky shine
Often confused with
Is Goethite valuable?
Inexpensive.
Typical retail prices
Collector specimen$5–60each
Typical retail ranges in US dollars, compiled from public dealer and marketplace listings in October 2026. Real prices vary widely with quality, size and origin. This is general information, not an appraisal.
What changes the price
- Form: velvety or 'rainbow' botryoidal pieces and prismatic crystals are collector forms
- Condition and sharpness: undamaged, well-formed pieces cost more
- It is a common iron ore, so ordinary pieces are inexpensive
Uses
- Iron ore, pigment
Care
Safe to handle.
Identifying a stone from a description or a photo is an estimate. Many stones look alike. Ask an expert or a gem lab before you buy, sell or rely on an identification.
Updated October 2026