mineral

Hematite

Hematite (Fe2O3)

Hardness: 5.5-6.5 on Mohs scale. Color: Dark grey, metallic silver, or reddish-brown. Luster: Metallic to submetallic or earthy. Crystal Structure: Trigonal. Cleavage: None, exhibits uneven fracture. Specific Gravity: 5.26.

Hardness: 5
Color: Dark grey, metallic silver, or reddish-brown
Luster: Metallic to submetallic or earthy

Identified August 2, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in diverse environments including hydrothermal veins, sedimentary iron formations, and volcanic deposits. Often precipitated from water or formed through the oxidation of iron-rich minerals over billions of years.

Uses & applications

Primary ore of iron; widely used in jewelry, tumbled stones, ornamental carvings, magnetic therapy items, and as a pigment in paints.

Geological facts

Hematite leaves a distinct reddish-brown streak when scratched on unglazed porcelain, a key diagnostic property regardless of its external color. The name comes from the Greek word 'haima', meaning blood, due to the red color of its powder.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified in the hand specimen by its heavy weight (high specific gravity), metallic dark sheen, and characteristic reddish-brown streak. Found globally, with massive deposits in Australia, Brazil, China, and the USA.