mineral

Specular hematite (iron ore)

Hematite, Fe₂O₃; likely specularite, possibly mixed with magnetite/goethite

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Very dark steel-gray to black, exceptionally bright metallic-to-submetallic luster with platy/reflective surfaces. Hematite hardness is about 5–6.5 Mohs, specific gravity ~5.0–5.3, and it commonly leaves a reddish-brown streak; cleavage is poor, with irregular fracture.…

Identified September 8, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Specular hematite (iron ore)
Scientific name: Hematite, Fe₂O₃; likely specularite, possibly mixed with magnetite/goethite
Category: mineral
Identified: September 8, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$30 for a common hand specimen; $30–$100+ for an unusually lustrous, well-formed collector piece. Tests are needed before assigning a higher value.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms by oxidation and hydrothermal alteration of iron-rich rocks, commonly in banded iron formations, veins, and weathering zones. It is Precambrian in many major deposits, though the specimen’s age cannot be determined visually.

Uses & applications

Important iron ore for steel production; attractive specular pieces are collected and occasionally used decoratively. Rough common material is usually low value.

Geological facts

A diagnostic hematite test is its red-to-reddish-brown streak, even when the surface appears black and mirror-like. Strong magnetism would suggest significant magnetite rather than pure hematite.

Field identification & locations

The specimen near 7.8°N, 36.5°E (western Ethiopia) is regionally plausible as iron-rich oxide material, but exact identification requires streak and magnet testing. It may also be magnetite-bearing ironstone or polished industrial slag if it lacks a red streak and is strongly magnetic.