mineral

Hematite

Iron(III) oxide (Fe2O3)

Hardness: 5.5-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Steel-gray, black, or reddish-brown; Luster: Metallic to earthy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Fracture: Uneven; Specific Gravity: 4.9-5.3; Known for its characteristic red streak.

Hardness: 5
Color: Steel-gray, black, or reddish-brown
Luster: Metallic to earthy

Identified May 23, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed as a primary mineral and an alteration product in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. Often found in Banded Iron Formations (BIFs) where it precipitated from ancient oceans billions of years ago.

Uses & applications

The main ore of iron used for steel production. Also used as a pigment (ochre), in jewelry as polished stones, and as a polishing compound (jeweler's rouge).

Geological facts

The name comes from the Greek word 'haimatitis' meaning blood-red, referring to the color of its powder. On Mars, the presence of hematite spherules (nicknamed 'blueberries') provided early evidence of liquid water in the planet's history.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its high density and by performing a streak test; even metallic-looking specimens will leave a reddish-brown streak. Common in mining regions of Minnesota (USA), Brazil, Australia, and South Africa.