mineral

Red Hematite (Banded Iron Formation)

Hematite (Fe2O3)

Hardness: 5.5-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Reddish-brown to steel gray; Luster: Metallic to earthy; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 5.26.

Hardness: 5
Color: Reddish-brown to steel gray
Luster: Metallic to earthy

Identified March 30, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5.5-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Reddish-brown to steel gray; Luster: Metallic to earthy; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 5.26.

Formation & geological history

Formed as a secondary mineral through oxidation of iron-rich sediments, most commonly in Precambrian Banded Iron Formations (BIFs) dating back over 2 billion years.

Uses & applications

Primary ore of iron for steel production; also used as a pigment (ochre), in polishing compounds (jeweler's rouge), and increasingly in jewelry as beads or cabs.

Geological facts

The name comes from the Greek word 'haima' meaning blood, due to its characteristic red streak. It is the mineral responsible for the red color of the surface of Mars.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its characteristic red streak on an unglazed porcelain plate. Found in abundance in regions like the Lake Superior district (USA), Brazil, and Australia.

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