mineral

Hematite (Polished / Tumbled)

Iron Oxide (Fe2O3)

Hardness: 5.5-6.5 on Mohs scale. Color: Metallic dark grey to silver-black with reddish-brown undertones along fine fracture lines. Luster: Metallic to sub-metallic. Crystal Structure: Trigonal. Specific Gravity: ~5.26. Leaves a characteristic reddish-brown streak when scratched against unglazed porcelain.

Hardness: 5
Luster: Metallic to sub-metallic

Identified July 27, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed primary in sedimentary environments like banded iron formations (BIFs) through precipitation from iron-rich waters, as well as in hydrothermal veins, metamorphic rocks, and volcanic sublimate deposits.

Uses & applications

Major iron ore used in steel manufacturing. Polished specimens are widely used in jewelry, beads, lapidary art, and metaphysical crystal collecting.

Geological facts

Despite appearing shiny black or metallic silver on the surface, its streak test is famously blood-red, which gives the mineral its name from the Greek word 'haima' meaning blood. NASA's Opportunity rover discovered hematite deposits on Mars, indicating ancient water was once present there.

Field identification & locations

Identifiable by its high density/heaviness, shiny metallic surface, and distinct red-brown streak. Found globally in major iron mining regions including Brazil, Australia, China, Russia, and the USA (Lake Superior region).