mineral
Hematite
Iron oxide (Fe2O3)
Hardness: 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale. Color: Steel-gray, black, reddish-brown. Luster: Metallic to submetallic or dull. 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 dull
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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 dull. Crystal Structure: Trigonal. Streak: Cherry-red to reddish-brown. Specific gravity: 5.26.
Formation & geological history
Forms in diverse environments, principally through sedimentary processes in banded iron formations, but also via hydrothermal veins, volcanic sublimation, and as an accessory mineral in igneous rocks.
Uses & applications
Primary ore of iron; used in heavy-media separation, radiation shielding, pigment production, and polished into beads, carvings, or tumbled stones for jewelry.
Geological facts
Hematite is the most important ore of iron worldwide. Despite its metallic silver-gray appearance, it always leaves a distinctive reddish-brown streak when scratched on unglazed porcelain.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its reddish-brown streak, metallic luster, and heavy weight relative to its size. Common worldwide, with major deposits in Australia, Brazil, China, and the United States.
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