mineral
Hematite
Iron(III) oxide (Fe2O3)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 5.5-6.5 on the Mohs scale, metallic to dull luster, steel-gray to black color, and a characteristic reddish-brown streak.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 5.5-6.5 on the Mohs scale, metallic to dull luster, steel-gray to black color, and a characteristic reddish-brown streak.
Formation & geological history
Forms in diverse geological environments, particularly aqueous deposition and hydrothermal veins, spanning worldwide occurrences across multiple geological eras.
Uses & applications
Widely used as a major ore of iron, in pigments, and polished into beads or worry stones for jewelry and metaphysical use.
Geological facts
Hematite is the most important ore of iron and is also found on Mars, contributing to the planet's reddish appearance.
Field identification & locations
Identified easily by its heavy weight and distinct reddish-brown streak when scratched on unglazed porcelain; found globally.
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
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