mineral

Botryoidal hematite or iron-oxide ore

Hematite, Fe₂O₃, possibly mixed with goethite/limonite

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Dark steel-gray to black, strongly metallic-to-submetallic luster, irregular botryoidal texture, and no obvious cleavage; hematite hardness is about 5–6.5 Mohs and specific gravity about 5.0–5.3. The appearance is consistent with a dense iron-oxide specimen, though the photograph cannot confirm composition.

Identified September 4, 2026More mineral →

Explore Botryoidal hematite or iron-oxide ore in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Typically forms by oxidation and hydrothermal alteration of iron-bearing rocks, often as botryoidal crusts or replacement masses; specimens may range from ancient Precambrian ores to younger weathering deposits. Common localities include Brazil, Morocco, the United States, and Australia.

Uses & applications

Used as an iron ore and pigment; attractive botryoidal pieces are collected and occasionally polished for display. It is generally inexpensive unless exceptionally lustrous, well formed, or locality-documented.

Geological facts

Hematite produces a diagnostic red-to-reddish-brown streak even when its surface is black and metallic. Goethite-rich material may produce a yellow-brown streak and has slightly lower hardness.

Field identification & locations

Test an inconspicuous spot with an unglazed porcelain tile for streak, examine density, and use a magnet cautiously because hematite is usually weakly magnetic while magnetite is strongly magnetic. The specimen’s lumpy metallic surface favors botryoidal hematite, but laboratory testing would be needed for certainty.