MN331

Sample ID MN331 • Cabinet E

Limonite

8.68cm W x 10.763cm H x 9.572cm D • 710g
Sample TypeMineralColorBlackLusterDull
StreakOrangeCleavage/FractureHacklySpecific Gravity3.35
Geographic Location/DateSalisbury CT Mohs Hardness 6

A collection of many black stalactitic crystals. The sides of the crystals are crumbly and deteriorated. At the base of the crystals there is a metallic gray mineral with a black streak and a hardness of 8. The crystals connect to a base mineral with striations reminiscent of hematite or goethite. At least one of the broken crystals streaked red. Due to the variable nature of this sample the label of Limonite has been used to mean "A mixture of hydrous iron oxides; of indefinite composition" (Audubon Field Guide).