Goethite

Add one script tag to your page:

<div data-gemfyi="entity" data-slug="goethite"></div>
<script src="https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/npm/gemfyi-embed@1/dist/embed.min.js" defer></script>

Embed as an iframe:

<iframe src="https://gemfyi.com/iframe/entity/goethite/?style=modern&theme=light" width="420" height="400" frameborder="0" loading="lazy" style="border:0;border-radius:10px;max-width:100%"></iframe>

Paste the URL in WordPress, Medium, or Ghost:

https://gemfyi.com/th/gems/goethite/

Shields.io-compatible SVG badge:

Goethite badge ![Goethite](https://gemfyi.com/badge/entity/goethite.svg)

Web Component:

<gemfyi-entity slug="goethite"></gemfyi-entity>
<script src="https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/npm/gemfyi-embed@1/dist/embed.min.js" defer></script>

Physical & Optical Properties

Mohs Hardness 5.0 – 5.5
Specific Gravity 4.27 – 4.29
Refractive Index 2.26 – 2.398
Crystal System Orthorhombic
Luster Adamantine,Silky,Dull (Earthy),Metallic
Cleavage Perfect
Fracture Uneven,Splintery
Color various
Birefringence 0.138
Pleochroism Visible

Mohs Hardness

Mohs Hardness: 5.0 – 5.5
1 Soft10 Hard

Crystal System

a b c Orthorhombic a ≠ b ≠ c, α = β = γ = 90°

Value & Market

Price Tier Budget (< $50/ct)

About Goethite

Goethite is an iron oxyhydroxide mineral, typically forming opaque brown, yellow-brown, or black masses, prismatic crystals, or iridescent botryoidal aggregates with a silky to adamantine luster. It is one of the most common iron minerals in Earth's crust, forming through weathering of iron-bearing minerals, and is found worldwide in soils, bogs, and oxide ore zones. In gemology, goethite inclusions create the golden needles seen in some quartzes (goethite in quartz), and rare transparent crystals have been faceted for collectors.

Jewelry Use

Durability 4/10

Science FYI Family

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Goethite?
Goethite is an iron oxyhydroxide mineral, typically forming opaque brown, yellow-brown, or black masses, prismatic crystals, or iridescent botryoidal aggregates with a silky to adamantine luster. It is one of the most common iron minerals in Earth's crust, forming through weathering of iron-bearing
What is the hardness of Goethite?
Goethite has a Mohs hardness of 5.0 to 5.5, making it moderate for use in jewelry.
What color is Goethite?
Goethite is primarily Various.
How much does Goethite cost?
Goethite falls into the Budget (< $50/ct) price range. Prices vary based on color, clarity, cut, and origin.
What is the crystal system of Goethite?
Goethite belongs to the Orthorhombic crystal system.

More Semi-Precious Gems Gems