mineral

Hematite

Hematite (Fe2O3)

Hardness: 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale. Color: Steel gray, black, 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, black, reddish-brown
Luster: Metallic to submetallic or earthy

Identified August 3, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in a wide variety of environments, including hydrothermal veins, sedimentary deposits, volcanic environments, and as an alteration product of other iron-bearing minerals. Can be formed via precipitation from aqueous solutions in sedimentary basins.

Uses & applications

Primary ore of iron used for steel production, pigment in paints, polishing compounds (jeweler's rouge), and carved into beads or gemstones for jewelry.

Geological facts

Hematite leaves a characteristic reddish-brown streak even when the mineral itself is metallic silver or black. It is also found on Mars, being responsible for the planet's reddish hue.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its distinctive reddish-brown streak on an unglazed porcelain streak plate and its heavy weight relative to its size. Common worldwide, particularly in banded iron formations.