mineral
Hematite
Iron(III) oxide (Fe2O3)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, metallic to earthy luster, steel-gray to black or reddish-brown color, and a distinct reddish-brown streak.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, metallic to earthy luster, steel-gray to black or reddish-brown color, and a distinct reddish-brown streak.
Formation & geological history
Formed through various geological processes including hydrothermal veins, sedimentary deposition in marine environments, and as an accessory mineral in igneous rocks.
Uses & applications
Primary ore of iron for steel production, used in pigments, radiation shielding, and occasionally polished for jewelry or ornamental carvings.
Geological facts
Hematite is the most important ore of iron on Earth and has also been discovered on the planet Mars by NASA rovers, giving the Martian surface its characteristic red hue.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its reddish-brown streak when scratched unglazed porcelain and its high specific gravity. Found worldwide with notable deposits in Australia, Brazil, and the USA.
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Limonite
FeO(OH)•nH2O
mineral
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