mineral
Iron-rich ochre (red/brown hematite pigment)
Hematite, Fe₂O₃, likely mixed with clay and quartz grains
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectFine, 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.
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Physical properties
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.
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.
