mineral

Titanium-Coated Hematite (Aura Hematite)

Titanium-bonded Hematite (Fe2O3 with a Ti coating)

Hardness: 5.5-6.5 (Mohs scale); Color: Iridescent rainbow/purple/blue; Luster: Metallic; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 5.26.

Hardness: 5
Color: Iridescent rainbow/purple/blue
Luster: Metallic

Identified March 14, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5.5-6.5 (Mohs scale); Color: Iridescent rainbow/purple/blue; Luster: Metallic; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 5.26.

Formation & geological history

The base mineral is a natural iron oxide formed through hydrothermal or sedimentary processes. The iridescent coating is man-made via vapor deposition, where atomized titanium is bonded to the surface in a vacuum.

Uses & applications

Primarily used for decorative purposes, fashion jewelry, and metaphysical/crystal collecting. Also used in magnetic therapy jewelry.

Geological facts

While the base mineral is a naturally occurring iron ore, the 'aura' effect is entirely artificial. It is often created by the same process used to coat camera lenses and spacecraft components.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its high density (feels heavy for its size) and metallic 'oil-slick' surface. It is rarely found with this coating in nature. Generally sourced from large-scale mines in Brazil and China before processing.

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