Goniatites are an extinct group of shelled cephalopods related to ammonites, known for their distinct zig-zag suture patterns on their coiled shells. They are typically found as internal molds or fossils within sedimentary layers, often displaying beautiful mineralized preservation such as pyritization. Look for them in marine shales and limestone formations dating back to the Devonian through the Permian periods.

Hardness

3-4

Mohs

Luster

Dull

Streak

White

Transparency

Opaque

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Goniatite

Also: Ammonoid

Hardness: 3-4
Luster: Dull
Streak: White
Transparency: Opaque

Is this goniatite?

5-step field check

Run through these checks against the specimen in your hand. The more boxes tick, the more confident the ID.

1
Test the hardness
Try to scratch goniatite with a known reference. Goniatite sits at Mohs 3-4 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Goniatite leaves a white streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Goniatite typically shows a dull luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: brown, gray, black, tan.
5
Look at form & habit
Typical habit: coiled shells.

Often found alongside goniatite

Minerals reported to co-occur with goniatite. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.

All properties

Mohs hardness: 3-4
Density: 2.6-2.9 g/cm³
Colors: Brown Gray Black Tan
Streak: White
Luster: Dull
Transparency: Opaque
Crystal habit: Coiled Shells
Cleavage: None
Rarity: Common
Uses: Collector, Decorative, Scientific
Host rock: Sedimentary Shale and Limestone
Typical price: $5-50 for small specimens, $100+ for large polished plates

Where rockhounds find goniatite

Classic worldwide localities

Morocco
USA
United Kingdom
Germany
Russia

Field-hunting tip

Look in sedimentary shale and limestone country — that is the host setting where goniatite typically forms. If you start seeing calcite, pyrite, quartz in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a coiled shells habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify goniatite?+

Mohs hardness is 3-4. It typically shows a dull luster. The streak is white. Common colors include brown, gray, black, tan.

Where is goniatite found?+

Notable localities include Morocco; USA; United Kingdom; Germany; Russia.

How much is goniatite worth?+

Typical asking prices fall in the range of $5-50 for small specimens, $100+ for large polished plates. Quality, size, and provenance can move individual specimens well outside that range.

What minerals are found with goniatite?+

Goniatite commonly co-occurs with Calcite, Pyrite, Quartz, Barite. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does goniatite form in?+

Goniatite typically forms in sedimentary shale and limestone. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is goniatite used for?+

Goniatite is used in collector, decorative, scientific.

Find goniatite on the map

RockHoundR shows mapped rockhounding spots, access rules, and lets you log every find.