mineral

Polished hematite-rich ironstone

Hematite (Fe₂O₃), likely with magnetite and iron-rich jasper/goethite

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Dark steel-black to reddish-brown, submetallic to glassy luster, massive rather than visibly crystalline; hematite hardness 5–6.5 Mohs, specific gravity about 5.0–5.3, typically no cleavage. The red patches are characteristic iron-oxide staining or jasper.

Identified August 11, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through oxidation, hydrothermal alteration, or chemical sedimentation of iron-rich rocks; exact age and locality cannot be determined from the image. Commonly occurs in Precambrian banded iron formations and weathered iron deposits.

Uses & applications

Used as an iron ore, pigment, polishing material, and ornamental stone; attractive polished pieces are sold as hematite or ironstone specimens.

Geological facts

Hematite produces a distinctive red-to-reddish-brown streak even when the specimen appears black; it is usually weakly magnetic or nonmagnetic, unlike magnetite.

Field identification & locations

Identify with a red streak on unglazed porcelain, high density, and possible weak magnetism; a strong magnet suggests abundant magnetite. Common worldwide, especially Brazil, Australia, India, South Africa, and the United States.