mineral
Ironstone / Hematite
Iron(III) oxide (Fe2O3)
Hardness: 5.5-6.5 on the Mohs scale; Color: Reddish-brown, steel grey, or black; Luster: Metallic to dull earthy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None, exhibits uneven fracture; Specific Gravity: 5.26
- Hardness
- 5
- Color
- Reddish-brown, steel grey, or black
- Luster
- Metallic to dull earthy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5.5-6.5 on the Mohs scale; Color: Reddish-brown, steel grey, or black; Luster: Metallic to dull earthy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None, exhibits uneven fracture; Specific Gravity: 5.26
Formation & geological history
Formed through various geological processes including hydrothermal veins, sedimentary deposition in banded iron formations, and as an accessory mineral in igneous rocks, dating across multiple geological eras from Precambrian to recent.
Uses & applications
Primary ore of iron for steel production, pigment in paints, and used in lapidary arts for cabochons and beads.
Geological facts
Hematite is the most important ore of iron worldwide and has been used by humans as a red pigment for cave paintings dating back tens of thousands of years.
Field identification & locations
Can be easily identified in the field by its characteristic reddish-brown streak on an unglazed porcelain plate and its heavy weight relative to its size.
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