mineral
Hematite
Iron(III) oxide (Fe2O3)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 5.5-6.5; Color: Steel-gray to black, or reddish-brown; Luster: Metallic to submetallic; Crystal System: Trigonal; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 5.26
- Hardness
- 5
- Color
- Steel-gray to black, or reddish-brown
- Luster
- Metallic to submetallic
Identified More mineral →
Explore Hematite in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 5.5-6.5; Color: Steel-gray to black, or reddish-brown; Luster: Metallic to submetallic; Crystal System: Trigonal; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 5.26
Formation & geological history
Commonly formed in sedimentary environments as a result of precipitation in water, as well as in hydrothermal veins or as an accessory mineral in igneous rocks.
Uses & applications
Primary source of iron ore globally; used in pigments (ochre), jewelry (beads and intaglios), and as a polishing compound (jeweler's rouge).
Geological facts
The name comes from the Greek word 'haimatitis' meaning blood-red, referring to its color when powdered. Hematite is also found in abundance on the planet Mars.
Field identification & locations
Can be identified in the field by its distinct reddish-brown streak when rubbed on a porcelain plate, even if the specimen appears black. It is commonly found in the Lake Superior region of North America, Brazil, and Australia.
