mineral
Hematite
Iron(III) oxide (Fe2O3)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, steel-gray to black color, metallic to dull luster, and leaves a characteristic reddish-brown streak.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, steel-gray to black color, metallic to dull luster, and leaves a characteristic reddish-brown streak.
Formation & geological history
Forms in diverse geological environments, particularly through hydrothermal processes and sedimentary deposition in aqueous settings.
Uses & applications
Primary ore of iron, used in jewelry, decorative carvings, and as a polishing powder (jeweler's rouge).
Geological facts
Hematite is the most important iron ore in the world and is also found on Mars, giving the planet its reddish hue.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its distinctive reddish-brown streak and metallic luster; found globally with major deposits in Australia, Brazil, and China.
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Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous