mineral
Hematite
Iron(III) oxide (Fe2O3)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 5.5 to 6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Dark grey, silver, reddish-brown to black; Luster: Metallic to submetallic or earthy; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None, exhibits uneven to conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 5.26
- Hardness
- 5
- Color
- Dark grey, silver, reddish-brown to black
- Luster
- Metallic to submetallic or earthy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5.5 to 6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Dark grey, silver, reddish-brown to black; Luster: Metallic to submetallic or earthy; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None, exhibits uneven to conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 5.26
Formation & geological history
Forms in diverse environments, notably hydrothermal veins, sedimentary iron formations, and as a weathering product of other iron-rich minerals. Often found in banded iron formations dating from the Precambrian eon.
Uses & applications
Primary ore of iron; used in heavy media separation, radiation shielding, pigment production, and polished into beads, carvings, and jewelry.
Geological facts
Hematite is the most important ore of iron. It is also found on the planet Mars, giving the Martian soil its characteristic reddish color and rusty appearance.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its characteristic reddish-brown streak when scratched on an unglazed porcelain plate, even when the surface of the mineral specimen is dark gray or metallic. Common worldwide.
