mineral

Hematite

Iron(III) oxide (Fe2O3)

Hardness: 5.5-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Steel-gray to black with a metallic luster; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Streak: Cherry red to reddish-brown; Specific gravity: 5.26.

Hardness: 5
Color: Steel-gray to black with a metallic luster
Streak: Cherry red to reddish-brown

Identified July 21, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5.5-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Steel-gray to black with a metallic luster; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Streak: Cherry red to reddish-brown; Specific gravity: 5.26.

Formation & geological history

Hematite forms in sedimentary environments through precipitation from water, as a primary mineral in igneous rocks, or via metamorphism of iron-rich sediments. It is found in banded iron formations dating back billions of years.

Uses & applications

Primary ore of iron for steel production; also used as a polishing compound (jeweler's rouge), pigment in paints and cosmetics, and used for beads or carvings in jewelry.

Geological facts

The name comes from the Greek word 'haima' (blood) because of its red streak color. Hematite is the most important ore of iron and is also found in abundances on the surface of Mars, contributing to its red color.

Field identification & locations

The definitive way to identify hematite in the field is the streak test; it will leave a red streak on an unglazed porcelain plate even if the specimen appears black and metallic. Found globally, often in massive or botryoidal forms.