mineral

Hematite

Hematite (Fe2O3)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale. Color: Steel-gray, dark gray, black, or reddish-brown. Luster: Metallic to sub-metallic or earthy. Crystal Structure: Trigonal. Cleavage: None, exhibits uneven fracture. Specific Gravity: 5.26.

Hardness: 5
Color: Steel-gray, dark gray, black, or reddish-brown
Luster: Metallic to sub-metallic or earthy

Identified July 29, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in various environments including hydrothermal veins, sedimentary deposits (often as banded iron formations), and as a weathering product of iron-rich rocks over geological time.

Uses & applications

Primary ore of iron, used in steel production, pigment manufacturing, radiation shielding, and carved into beads, jewelry, and ornaments.

Geological facts

Hematite leaves a distinctive reddish-brown streak when scratched on an unglazed porcelain plate, even when the mineral itself is dark gray or metallic black.

Field identification & locations

Easily identifiable by its heavy weight, dark metallic appearance, and characteristic red streak. Found worldwide, particularly in regions with ancient sedimentary iron formations.