Rock Identifier
Botryoidal Hematite (Iron Ore) (Iron(III) oxide (Fe2O3)) — mineral
mineral

Botryoidal Hematite (Iron Ore)

Iron(III) oxide (Fe2O3)

Hardness: 5.5-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Metallic gray to black with reddish-brown oxidation; Luster: Submetallic to dull; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (often found in botryoidal or 'grape-like' masses); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 5.26.

Hardness
5
Color
Metallic gray to black with reddish-brown oxidation
Luster
Submetallic to dull
Identified More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5.5-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Metallic gray to black with reddish-brown oxidation; Luster: Submetallic to dull; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (often found in botryoidal or 'grape-like' masses); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 5.26.

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins or as a secondary mineral through the weathering and oxidation of other iron-bearing minerals. While it can be found in rocks from various ages, it is frequently associated with banded iron formations from the Precambrian era (over 2 billion years ago).

Uses & applications

Primary ore of iron; used in the production of steel and iron products. High-quality specimens are used as jewelry (black pearls), pigment in paints (ochre), and highly collectible mineral specimens.

Geological facts

Hematite is the mineral responsible for the reddish color of Mars' surface. The name is derived from the Greek word 'haima' for blood, due to the blood-red color of the mineral when ground into a powder.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its high density (feels heavy for its size) and a characteristic reddish-brown streak when rubbed against an unglazed porcelain plate. Commonly found in mining districts in the USA (Great Lakes region), Brazil, and Australia.

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