mineral

Red Hematite

Iron(III) Oxide (Fe2O3)

Hardness: 5.5-6.5 (Mohs scale), Color: Reddish-brown to metallic grey, Luster: Metallic to dull/earthy, Crystal Structure: Trigonal, Cleavage: None (uneven fracture), Specific Gravity: 5.26

Hardness: 5

Identified February 24, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5.5-6.5 (Mohs scale), Color: Reddish-brown to metallic grey, Luster: Metallic to dull/earthy, Crystal Structure: Trigonal, Cleavage: None (uneven fracture), Specific Gravity: 5.26

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins and as a primary mineral in igneous rocks, but most commonly as a precipitate in sedimentary environments known as Banded Iron Formations (BIFs), often dating back over 2 billion years.

Uses & applications

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

Geological facts

Hematite is the reason Mars is known as the Red Planet; its surface is covered in hematite dust. The name comes from the Greek word 'haima' meaning blood, due to the blood-red color of its streak.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its characteristic 'cherry-red' streak when scratched on a porcelain plate. Found worldwide in places like the Lake Superior district (USA), Brazil, Australia, and China.