mineral

Specular Hematite (Specularite) in Matrix

Specularite (Fe2O3)

Hardness: 5.5–6.5; Color: Steel-gray to black with a glittering metallic sheen; Luster: Specular/Metallic; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Streak: Reddish-brown; Cleavage: None

Hardness: 5
Color: Steel-gray to black with a glittering metallic sheen
Luster: Specular/Metallic

Identified April 6, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 5.5–6.5; Color: Steel-gray to black with a glittering metallic sheen; Luster: Specular/Metallic; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Streak: Reddish-brown; Cleavage: None

Formation & geological history

Formed as a secondary mineral in hydrothermal veins or via metamorphic processes from pre-existing iron-rich sediments. Often found in banded iron formations.

Uses & applications

Primary ore of iron; decorative stone for carvings; historical use as paint pigment (red ochre); minor lapidary use in beads.

Geological facts

Specular hematite is composed of numerous tiny, mirror-like flakes or micaceous platelets that reflect light, giving it a 'sparkly' appearance often mistaken for glitter.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its characteristic reddish-brown streak when rubbed on unglazed porcelain and its high specific gravity. Common in iron-rich districts like Lake Superior (USA), Brazil, and Australia.

Other mineral specimens

See all

Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Green Apatite on Albite

Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]

mineral

Epidote

Epidote - Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)3(SiO4)3(OH)

mineral