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, reddish-brown streak, and a botryoidal or massive crystal habit.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, metallic to earthy luster, reddish-brown streak, and a botryoidal or massive crystal habit.
Formation & geological history
Forms in diverse geological environments, particularly hydrothermal veins, sedimentary iron deposits, and as an alteration product.
Uses & applications
Primary ore of iron, used in pigments, radiation shielding, and occasionally polished for jewelry.
Geological facts
Hematite is the most important ore of iron globally and is also found on Mars, giving the planet its characteristic reddish hue.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its distinctive reddish-brown streak when scratched on unglazed porcelain. Common worldwide.
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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
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral