Laterite identification and geology

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Sources, scope & corrections

These authoritative resources support category-level nomenclature, terminology, identification methods, and safety. When a specimen-specific safety warning appears, the public-health source listed here directly supports that precaution. They are not line-by-line citations for every other property on this entry, and natural specimens vary.

Editorial owner

GeoMiner

Last updated

2026-03-30T14:38:35.270641+00:00

Review status

Published; not independently peer-reviewed

• Rocks — U.S. National Park Service. Authoritative overview of rock groups, the rock cycle, and geologic processes.
• Can you identify my rock or mineral? — U.S. Geological Survey. Identification limitations and routes to in-person professional verification.

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Common questions

What is Laterite?

Iron and aluminum-rich residual soil/rock formed by intense tropical weathering. Often red-brown and pisolitic.

How can you identify Laterite?

Compare several properties rather than relying on colour alone. This entry records rock type: Sedimentary Residual; texture: Pisolitic to massive; grain size: Variable; common minerals: Goethite, Hematite, Gibbsite, Kaolinite. Confirm an important identification with additional field tests or qualified laboratory work.

How does Laterite form?

Forms from prolonged intense chemical weathering in tropical climates that removes silica and concentrates iron and aluminum.

Where is Laterite commonly found?

Tropical regions worldwide; India, Australia, West Africa, Southeast Asia.

What is Laterite commonly confused with?

Laterite may be confused with Bauxite, Ironstone, Limonite crust. Compare multiple diagnostic properties because colour and surface appearance can overlap.