mineral

Botryoidal hematite (specular hematite)

Hematite, Fe₂O₃

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Dark steel-gray to black, metallic-to-submetallic luster, with a rounded botryoidal or kidney-shaped surface and fibrous/radiating textures. Hardness 5–6.5 Mohs; specific gravity about 5.3; cleavage absent to poor; typically trigonal crystal structure, though massive forms are common.

Identified September 8, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms through oxidation of iron-rich fluids and weathering, often as kidney ore, botryoidal coatings, or hydrothermal replacements. Hematite deposits range from Precambrian banded iron formations to much younger sedimentary and hydrothermal environments.

Uses & applications

Used extensively as an iron ore and pigment; polished specimens are popular mineral collectibles and sometimes used in jewelry. Magnetic hematite jewelry is commonly synthetic or magnetized material, not necessarily natural hematite.

Geological facts

A diagnostic red-to-reddish-brown streak distinguishes hematite from magnetite, which gives a black streak. The pictured rounded, lustrous mass is consistent with polished or naturally smoothed botryoidal hematite, though image-only identification is not definitive.

Field identification & locations

Common localities include Brazil, England, Morocco, Mexico, South Africa, and the Lake Superior region. Test an inconspicuous area with an unglazed porcelain streak plate; avoid confusing it with metallic slag or magnetite.