mineral

Hematite

Iron(III) oxide (Fe2O3)

Hardness: 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale. Color: ranges from metallic gray and silver to reddish-brown and black. Luster: metallic to sub-metallic or earthy. Crystal structure: trigonal, rhombohedral. Cleavage: none, displays parting. Specific gravity: 5.26.

Hardness: 5
Luster: metallic to sub-metallic or earthy

Identified August 7, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in diverse environments including hydrothermal veins, sedimentary iron formations (BIFs), and as a weathering product of other iron-rich minerals. Geological ages range from Precambrian banded iron formations to modern hydrothermal deposits.

Uses & applications

Primary ore of iron and steel production, pigment in paints, jewelry, ornamental carvings, and occasionally used in metaphysical crystal healing.

Geological facts

Hematite is the most important ore of iron on Earth. Its name derives from the Greek word 'haima', meaning blood, due to the red color of its powder or streak. It has also been found on the planet Mars by NASA rovers.

Field identification & locations

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