mineral
Hematite
Hematite (Fe2O3)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 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
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Physical properties
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.
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.
