mineral

Iron-rich ochre (red/brown hematite pigment)

Hematite, Fe₂O₃, likely mixed with clay and quartz grains

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Fine, earthy reddish-brown powder with a dull/earthy luster; individual grains are too small to show crystal form. Hematite has Mohs hardness 5–6.5 and specific gravity about 5.3, but clay admixture lowers the bulk density.

Identified September 21, 2026More mineral →

Explore Iron-rich ochre (red/brown hematite pigment) in the encyclopedia →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed by weathering and oxidation of iron-bearing rocks, producing hematite-rich soil or ochre; deposits commonly develop in lateritic, hydrothermal, or sedimentary environments. Exact geological age cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Used as a natural pigment in paints, ceramics, cosmetics, and traditional art; hematite is also an iron ore. This loose powder has little jewelry or construction value.

Geological facts

A simple streak test is diagnostic: hematite leaves a red to reddish-brown streak even when the specimen itself looks dark. The image appears to show a powder or crushed material on a plate rather than a solid rock.

Field identification & locations

Common in iron-oxide soil horizons and weathered outcrops worldwide, including Australia, Brazil, India, and the United States. Confirm with a red streak, nonmagnetic or weakly magnetic behavior, and acid resistance; a laboratory iron assay would distinguish it from ordinary brown soil.