mineral

Red Hematite

Iron(III) oxide (Fe2O3)

Hardness: 5.5–6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Reddish-brown to metallic grey; Luster: Dull to metallic; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 5.26

Hardness: 5
Color: Reddish-brown to metallic grey
Luster: Dull to metallic

Identified March 30, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5.5–6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Reddish-brown to metallic grey; Luster: Dull to metallic; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 5.26

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins, as an alteration product of other iron-bearing minerals, or in massive sedimentary deposits known as Banded Iron Formations (BIFs) dating back over 2 billion years.

Uses & applications

Primary ore of iron; used as a pigment (ochre), in jewelry as polished stones or intaglios, and as a polishing compound (jeweler's rouge).

Geological facts

Hematite is responsible for the red color of many rocks in the American Southwest and even the reddish hue of the planet Mars. It is one of the most abundant minerals on Earth's surface.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its characteristic 'cherry red' streak when rubbed against a primitive porcelain streak plate. Commonly found in large sedimentary basins in Brazil, Australia, and the Lake Superior region.