mineral

Specular Hematite (Specularite)

Iron Oxide (Fe2O3)

Hardness: 5.5-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Steel-gray to black with a shiny, sparkling surface; Luster: Metallic to sub-metallic, highly reflective; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Streak: Characteristically reddish-brown; Specific Gravity: 5.26.

Hardness: 5
Color: Steel-gray to black with a shiny, sparkling surface
Luster: Metallic to sub-metallic, highly reflective

Identified July 22, 2026More mineral →

Explore Specular Hematite (Specularite) in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms primarily in sedimentary environments through precipitation of iron-rich fluids, as well as in hydrothermal veins and metamorphic banded iron formations (BIFs) where heat and pressure recrystallize hematite into flaky, micaceous crystals.

Uses & applications

Primary ore of iron for industrial steel production. Used historically and currently as a pigment (red ochre), in mineral collections, as decorative carving material, and occasionally in beaded jewelry.

Geological facts

Specular hematite gets its sparkling, glittery appearance from tiny micaceous flakes or scales of hematite crystals that reflect light like small mirrors. Despite its metallic silver-gray appearance, scraping it on unglazed porcelain reveals a distinct cherry-red streak.

Field identification & locations

Can be identified in the field by its high density/heaviness, sparkling metallic luster, high iron content, and its diagnostic reddish-brown streak test. Common in iron-mining regions such as the Lake Superior district (USA), Minas Gerais (Brazil), and South Africa.