mineral
Hematite
Iron oxide (Fe2O3)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 5.5-6.5. Metallic to submetallic luster, opaque. High specific gravity (dense). Tumbled forms show a smooth, silvery-black metallic surface.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 5.5-6.5. Metallic to submetallic luster, opaque. High specific gravity (dense). Tumbled forms show a smooth, silvery-black metallic surface.
Formation & geological history
Forms in diverse environments including sedimentary banded iron formations, hydrothermal veins, and volcanic rocks. Significant deposits formed billions of years ago.
Uses & applications
Major ore of iron. Used in heavy media separation, pigments, radiation shielding, and as polished beads or tumbled stones in jewelry.
Geological facts
Leaves a distinctive red to reddish-brown streak on an unglazed porcelain plate, regardless of its external color. The name derives from the Greek word for blood.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its high density and red streak. Commonly found globally. Tumbled specimens like this are readily available for collectors.
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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
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous