mineral
Hematite
Hematite (Fe2O3)
Hardness: 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale. Color: Steel-gray, dark gray, black, or reddish-brown. Luster: Metallic to submetallic or earthy. Crystal Structure: Trigonal. Cleavage: None, exhibits uneven to conchoidal fracture. Specific Gravity: 5.26.
- Hardness
- 5
- Color
- Steel-gray, dark gray, black, or reddish-brown
- Luster
- Metallic to submetallic or earthy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale. Color: Steel-gray, dark gray, black, or reddish-brown. Luster: Metallic to submetallic or earthy. Crystal Structure: Trigonal. Cleavage: None, exhibits uneven to conchoidal fracture. Specific Gravity: 5.26.
Formation & geological history
Forms in a variety of environments including hydrothermal veins, sedimentary iron formations, and as a weathering product of other iron-rich minerals. Found globally.
Uses & applications
Primary ore of iron, used in steel production, pigments, jewelry, and ornamental carvings.
Geological facts
Hematite leaves a distinct reddish-brown streak when scratched on an unglazed porcelain plate, which is its most famous diagnostic property despite its metallic silver-gray appearance.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its characteristic reddish-brown streak, metallic luster, and heavy weight (high specific gravity). Common in mineral collections and found worldwide.
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