mineral
Hematite
Iron(III) oxide (Fe2O3)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, metallic to dull luster, steel-gray to black color, and a distinctive reddish-brown streak. It crystallizes in the trigonal system.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, metallic to dull luster, steel-gray to black color, and a distinctive reddish-brown streak. It crystallizes in the trigonal system.
Formation & geological history
Forms in diverse geological environments, particularly hydrothermal veins, sedimentary iron deposits, and as an accessory mineral in igneous rocks.
Uses & applications
Primary ore of iron, used in pigments, radiation shielding, heavy media separation, and polished for gemstone jewelry and worry stones.
Geological facts
Hematite gets its name from the Greek word for blood, 'haima', due to the red color of its powder or streak. It is also found on Mars.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its heavy weight, metallic sheen, and characteristic reddish-brown streak on an unglazed porcelain plate. 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
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous