mineral

Specular Hematite (Polished Sphere)

Hematite (Alpha Fe2O3)

Hardness: 5.5–6.5 Mohs scale; Color: Metallic grey to black; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 5.26

Hardness: 5
Color: Metallic grey to black
Luster: Metallic

Identified May 2, 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 Mohs scale; Color: Metallic grey to black; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 5.26

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins, as a result of volcanic activity, or in sedimentary environments as banded iron formations (BIFs) dating back billions of years.

Uses & applications

Primary ore of iron; also used in polishing compounds (jeweler's rouge), protective coatings, jewelry, and metaphysical collecting.

Geological facts

Hematite is known as the 'blood stone' because its streak and powdered form are blood-red, even though the crystal looks black or silver. It is responsible for the red color of Mars' surface.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its high density (feels heavy for its size) and by performing a streak test on unglazed porcelain, which will leave a distinct reddish-brown mark. Commonly found in Brazil, Australia, and the Lake Superior region.

Other mineral specimens

See all

Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Schist

Metamorphic

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