mineral

Specular Hematite (Specularite)

Iron Oxide (Fe2O3)

Hardness: 5.5-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Steel-gray to black with a metallic, glittery luster; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None/Indistinct; Specific Gravity: Approx. 5.26; Streak: Characteristic reddish-brown.

Hardness: 5
Color: Steel-gray to black with a metallic, glittery luster
Streak: Characteristic reddish-brown

Identified February 15, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through hydrothermal processes, contact metamorphism, or in banded iron formations (BIF). It frequently occurs in oxidized portions of iron ore deposits and can be found in rocks ranging from the Precambrian era to more recent volcanic environments.

Uses & applications

Primary ore of iron for steel production. In jewelry, it is used as a gemstone (often mistaken for marcasite). Also used as an abrasive (polishing rouge) and as a heavy pigment in anti-corrosive paints.

Geological facts

The name 'Hematite' is derived from the Greek word for blood ('haima') because its streak and powdered form are blood-red. Specularite is unique because its tiny, mirror-like mica-looking flakes cause a 'glitter' effect even in dark stones.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by checking its streak: rubbing it against unglazed porcelain will leave a reddish-brown mark regardless of the exterior black color. It is heavy for its size (high density) and often non-magnetic. It is commonly found in the Lake Superior region of the US, Brazil, and Australia.

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