mineral

Hematite

Iron(III) oxide (Fe2O3)

Hardness: 5.5-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Steel-gray to black (metallic) or reddish-brown (earthy); Luster: Metallic to sub-metallic; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 5.26

Hardness: 5
Color: Steel-gray to black (metallic) or reddish-brown (earthy)
Luster: Metallic to sub-metallic

Identified April 10, 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 on Mohs scale; Color: Steel-gray to black (metallic) or reddish-brown (earthy); Luster: Metallic to sub-metallic; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 5.26

Formation & geological history

Formed through precipitation from water, hydrothermal activity, or oxidation of iron-rich minerals. It can be found in sedimentary, igneous, or metamorphic environments, often in banded iron formations dating back over 2 billion years.

Uses & applications

Primary ore of iron; used in heavy media separation, radiation shielding, as a pigment (ochre), and carved into jewelry or decorative items.

Geological facts

Hematite always leaves a reddish-brown streak regardless of its external color. It was once used as 'bloodstone' (different from the chalcedony variety) because it turns the water red when ground. It has even been discovered on Mars by the Opportunity rover.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its high density (feels heavy for its size) and its diagnostic red-brown streak on a porcelain plate. Found globally in places like Brazil, Australia, and the Lake Superior region of North America.