Stones: Limonite
Size: 70x60 mm
Weight: 185g
Location: Poltava region of Ukraine
You are purchasing the exact specimen as shown in the photographs.
General Information
Limonite is a general term used to denote a group of iron hydroxides.
In practice, limonite is used as a term to denote a mixture of unidentified minerals of iron hydroxides and oxides—a mineral aggregate with distinctive external appearance, occurrence, and origin. Typically, this mixture does not contain visually distinguishable crystals, except for pseudomorphs—remaining crystal forms, such as those of pyrite or siderite, replaced by minerals that make up the limonite.
When analyzed using instrumental methods, minerals such as goethite, lepidocrocite, goethite, pitticite, jarosite, hematite, maghemite, and others may be detected in the mixture. These minerals can be present in various proportions, but goethite usually predominates.
In field conditions, geologists often cannot determine the minerals in the mixture, justifying the use of the general term "limonite." Especially when determining minerals in the microscopic realm does not significantly advance geological mapping, exploration, and prospecting for valuable mineral deposits.
FIRST IDENTIFIED AND DESCRIBED
Limonite has been known since ancient times. According to mindat.org, the name "limonite" was coined by Johann Friedrich Ludwig Hausmann in 1813.
Origin of the name: From the Greek word λειμών (leimṓn), meaning a damp or marshy place.
PROPERTIES
Composition (formula): Compounds of Fe3+ with oxygen and hydroxyl
Color: Light to dark brown, sometimes yellowish-brown (mindat.org); in dense masses – black, in porous masses – brown, in powdery form (ochre) – yellow-brown (Betekhtin A.G., 2007, pp. 83-84)
Streak Color: Yellowish-brown to red (mindat.org)
Transparency: Opaque
Luster: Earthy
Hardness: From 4 to 1, depending on physical state
Density (specific gravity), g/cm3: 3.3-4.0 (Betekhtin A.G., 2007, p. 380)
Special Properties: Limonite (and its main component, goethite) is recognized by its indistinctly crystalline forms, brown streak, and yellow-brown ochreous patches.
Under a soldering tube, limonite melts; upon prolonged heating, it becomes strongly magnetic. In a glass tube, it releases water, turns red, transforming into anhydrous Fe2O3. It dissolves slowly in HCl.
DIAGNOSTIC FEATURES
Ochreous masses of limonite, when rubbed between fingers, give the sensation of sand, not a greasy, staining substance, as in the case of a similar-colored powdery variety of jarosite.
MORPHOLOGY
Dense solid or porous botryoidal, stalactitic, or powdery masses; occur in nodular and stalactitic forms, concretions, and pseudomorphs of limonite after iron minerals.
ORIGIN
Limonite forms in exogenous conditions during the decomposition of iron-bearing sulfides, siderite, iron-bearing silicates in oxidation zones (iron transforms into Fe3+). It is found in formations such as iron caps, laterites, bog ores.
APPLICATION
Limonite was previously used as raw material for extracting high-quality iron ore, essential for the production of pig iron and steel in blast furnaces.
MAGICAL PROPERTIES
It is believed that limonite strengthens endurance and stimulates inner strength, especially in extreme conditions. The stone is thought to provide protection from ill-wishers and prevent energy overloads. Limonite is also said to enhance telepathic abilities and aid in overcoming mental confusion.
Shipping and Service
We guarantee fast and reliable shipping with tracking. Additionally, we are always ready to answer all your questions and provide additional photos and information upon request.
Don't miss the unique opportunity to acquire this rare and exquisite mineral with an origin from a prestigious deposit. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions or need further information. Thank you for your interest!
Poltava Limonite Specimen 70x60mm 185g: Rare Ukrainian Iron Hydroxides Mineral
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