mineral

Hematite

Iron(III) oxide (Fe2O3)

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

Hardness: 5
Color: Dark grey, silver, reddish-brown to black
Luster: Metallic to submetallic or earthy

Identified July 31, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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.