mineral
Hematite
Iron(III) oxide (Fe2O3)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale. Color: Steel gray, black, reddish-brown. Luster: Metallic to submetallic or earthy. Crystal structure: Trigonal. Streak: Cherry-red to reddish-brown. Specific gravity: 5.26.
- Hardness
- 5
- Color
- Steel gray, black, reddish-brown
- Luster
- Metallic to submetallic or earthy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale. Color: Steel gray, black, reddish-brown. Luster: Metallic to submetallic or earthy. Crystal structure: Trigonal. Streak: Cherry-red to reddish-brown. Specific gravity: 5.26.
Formation & geological history
Forms in diverse environments, primarily through aqueous processes, hydrothermal veins, and as an accessory mineral in igneous and metamorphic rocks. It can also form as a weathering product of other iron-rich minerals.
Uses & applications
Primary ore of iron used for steel production, pigment in paints and cosmetics, and occasionally carved into ornamental objects or jewelry.
Geological facts
Hematite is the most abundant iron oxide mineral on Earth and is also found on Mars, contributing to the planet's reddish appearance.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its distinct reddish-brown streak when scratched across an unglazed porcelain plate, despite often having a metallic silver-gray appearance.
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Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
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Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
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Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
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Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
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