mineral

Specular Hematite (Iron Ore)

Iron(III) oxide (Fe2O3)

Hardness: 5.5-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Steel-gray to black with a metallic/shimmery luster; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Streak: Reddish-brown; Cleavage: None (has parting); Specific Gravity: 5.26.

Hardness: 5
Color: Steel-gray to black with a metallic/shimmery luster
Streak: Reddish-brown

Identified May 29, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5.5-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Steel-gray to black with a metallic/shimmery luster; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Streak: Reddish-brown; Cleavage: None (has parting); Specific Gravity: 5.26.

Formation & geological history

Formed through precipitation in hydrothermal veins, as an accessory mineral in igneous rocks, or more commonly in massive sedimentary deposits such as Banded Iron Formations (BIFs) dating back over 2 billion years.

Uses & applications

Primary ore of iron for steel production; used as a heavy medium for separation; crushed for use in pigments (ochre), polishing compounds (jeweler's rouge), and increasingly in gemstone jewelry as beads or cabochons.

Geological facts

Hematite is the most important ore of iron. Its name comes from the Greek word 'haima' for blood, due to the deep red color of many of its forms and its streak. It has even been found in abundance on the planet Mars, giving the Red Planet its hue.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct high density (heavy for its size) and its diagnostic reddish-brown streak when rubbed against a porcelain tile. Often found in proximity to other iron minerals like magnetite or goethite.