mineral
Hematite
Iron(III) oxide (Fe2O3)
Hardness of 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, color ranges from metallic silver-gray to reddish-brown, metallic to dull luster, crystal system is rhombohedral, no true cleavage, specific gravity is approximately 5.3.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, color ranges from metallic silver-gray to reddish-brown, metallic to dull luster, crystal system is rhombohedral, no true cleavage, specific gravity is approximately 5.3.
Formation & geological history
Forms in various environments, notably hydrothermal veins, sedimentary rock formations, and as an alteration product of other iron-bearing minerals. Can be Precambrian in age (such as in banded iron formations formed over 2 billion years ago).
Uses & applications
Primary ore of iron, used in pigment production, heavy media separation, radiation shielding, and lapidary arts for jewelry and polished stones.
Geological facts
Hematite is the most important ore of iron. Its name comes from the Greek word 'haima', meaning blood, due to the red color of its powder.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its characteristic reddish-brown streak when scratched on an unglazed porcelain plate. Found worldwide, with major deposits in Australia, Brazil, China, and the United States.
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