mineral
Botryoidal hematite (specular hematite)
Hematite, Fe₂O₃
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectDark 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.
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Physical properties
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.
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.
