mineral
Hematite Beads
Iron Oxide (Fe2O3)
Hardness of 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, metallic luster, dark gray to black or polished rainbow/bronze coatings, opaque, uneven to subconchoidal fracture, specific gravity of 5.3
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Physical properties
Hardness of 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, metallic luster, dark gray to black or polished rainbow/bronze coatings, opaque, uneven to subconchoidal fracture, specific gravity of 5.3
Formation & geological history
Formed in diverse environments, particularly hydrothermal veins, sedimentary iron formations, and volcanic deposits
Uses & applications
Widely used in jewelry making, beadwork, ornamental carvings, and as a primary ore of iron
Geological facts
Hematite is the main ore of iron and gets its name from the Greek word for blood, 'haima', due to its red streak when powdered
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its characteristic reddish-brown streak and metallic luster, often found globally in banded iron formations
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