mineral

Hematite

Iron(III) oxide (Fe2O3)

Hardness: 5.5–6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Steel-gray to black (metallic), reddish-brown (earthy); Luster: Metallic to sub-metallic; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 5.26

Hardness: 5
Color: Steel-gray to black (metallic), reddish-brown (earthy)
Luster: Metallic to sub-metallic

Identified March 14, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5.5–6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Steel-gray to black (metallic), reddish-brown (earthy); Luster: Metallic to sub-metallic; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 5.26

Formation & geological history

Formed in sedimentary, igneous, or metamorphic environments. Most large deposits reside in Banded Iron Formations (BIFs) dating back over 2 billion years, produced by the oxygenation of the Earth's oceans.

Uses & applications

Primary ore of iron; used in pigment production, heavy media separation, radiation shielding, and extensively in jewelry/beads due to its high metallic shine.

Geological facts

Hematite is responsible for the red color of many rocks on Earth and the reddish hue of the planet Mars. It is noticeably heavy due to its high iron content and produces a characteristic blood-red streak when rubbed on unglazed porcelain.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its high density and distinctive red-brown streak. Found globally, with major deposits in Brazil, Australia, China, and Lake Superior (USA). 'Hemalyke' is a common synthetic magnetic imitation.