mineral

Polished dark mineral fragments, likely hematite or magnetite

Hematite (Fe₂O₃) or magnetite (Fe₃O₄)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Small, polished black-to-brown pieces with metallic to submetallic luster; hematite has Mohs hardness 5–6.5 and reddish-brown streak, while magnetite has hardness 5.5–6.5 and is strongly magnetic. The image is too low-resolution for a confident distinction.

Identified August 14, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Both are iron-oxide minerals formed in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments, commonly through hydrothermal alteration or oxidation; deposits range from Precambrian banded iron formations to younger veins and weathering zones.

Uses & applications

Used as iron ore, pigments, abrasives, and ornamental or metaphysical specimens; polished hematite is common in inexpensive jewelry.

Geological facts

A magnet is the quickest discriminator: magnetite is strongly attracted, whereas hematite is usually nonmagnetic or only weakly magnetic. Hematite leaves a red to reddish-brown streak; magnetite leaves a black streak.

Field identification & locations

Common worldwide, especially in Brazil, Australia, India, South Africa, and the United States; inspect streak, magnetism, and metallic luster rather than color alone.