Named in 1845 by Wilhelm Karl von Haidinger from the Greek "σίδηρος" (sideros), "iron", in allusion to its composition. Calcite Group. Magnesite-Siderite Series, Rhodochrosite-Siderite Series, Siderite-Smithsonite Series.

Where is siderite most commonly found?

Siderite is commonly found in hydrothermal veins, and is associated with barite, fluorite, galena, and others. It is also a common diagenetic mineral in shales and sandstones, where it sometimes forms concretions, which can encase three-dimensionally preserved fossils.

How is siderite formed?

Description: Siderite forms as a sedimentary precipitate, in hydrothermal veins, in metamorphic rocks formed from such protoliths, and, rarely, in pegmatites. In sedimentary environments it forms in extensive beds of banded iron formations and as more localized deposits of bog-iron ore.