mineral

Hematite

Iron(III) oxide (Fe2O3)

Hardness: 5.5-6.5 on Mohs scale. Color: Black to steel-gray, reddish-brown. Luster: Metallic to sub-metallic, dull. Crystal structure: Trigonal. Streak: Cherry-red or reddish-brown.

Hardness: 5
Color: Black to steel-gray, reddish-brown
Luster: Metallic to sub-metallic, dull

Identified August 4, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5.5-6.5 on Mohs scale. Color: Black to steel-gray, reddish-brown. Luster: Metallic to sub-metallic, dull. Crystal structure: Trigonal. Streak: Cherry-red or reddish-brown.

Formation & geological history

Forms in diverse environments including hydrothermal veins, sedimentary rock formations, and as an alteration product in igneous rocks. Often precipitates from aqueous solutions.

Uses & applications

Primary ore of iron, used in steel production, pigments, polishing powders, jewelry, and ornamental carvings.

Geological facts

Hematite is the most important ore of iron. It is also found on Mars, where it is responsible for the planet's reddish color and occurs in interesting formations known as 'blueberries'.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its distinctive reddish-brown streak when scratched across unglazed porcelain. Commonly found worldwide, notably in the Lake Superior region of North America, Brazil, Australia, and England.