mineral

Hematite

Iron Oxide (Fe2O3)

Hardness: 5.5-6.5 on Mohs scale. Color: Metallic dark grey to black with reddish undertones. Luster: Metallic to submetallic. Streak: Characteristic reddish-brown streak. Crystal system: Trigonal.

Hardness: 5
Color: Metallic dark grey to black with reddish undertones
Luster: Metallic to submetallic

Identified July 22, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5.5-6.5 on Mohs scale. Color: Metallic dark grey to black with reddish undertones. Luster: Metallic to submetallic. Streak: Characteristic reddish-brown streak. Crystal system: Trigonal.

Formation & geological history

Forms as a primary mineral and as a precipitation product in sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic environments, often in banded iron formations.

Uses & applications

Primary ore of iron, used in steel manufacturing, pigments, radiation shielding, polished tumbled stones for jewelry, and crystal healing collections.

Geological facts

When ground up or scratched, hematite leaves a distinctive rust-red powder streak, which gave it its name from the Greek word 'haima' meaning blood.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its high density/weight for its size, metallic luster, and reddish-brown streak when scratched against unglazed porcelain. Commonly found in Brazil, Australia, USA, China, and South Africa.