mineral

Specular hematite (specularite)

Hematite, iron(III) oxide (Fe₂O₃), micaceous/specular variety

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically metallic steel-gray to black with bright silvery reflective flakes; hardness 5–6.5 Mohs, specific gravity about 5.0–5.3, opaque, with a trigonal crystal structure and no prominent cleavage. It produces a red to reddish-brown streak, a key distinction from galena or metallic slag.

Identified September 9, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in hydrothermal veins, banded iron formations, metamorphosed iron-rich sediments, and oxidized ore deposits. Specularite may develop through recrystallization during metamorphism, ranging from Precambrian deposits to much younger hydrothermal environments.

Uses & applications

Important iron ore and a minor pigment source; attractive pieces are collected as mineral specimens and occasionally used in ornamental objects or jewelry.

Geological facts

The name refers to its mirror-like, specular reflections from platy hematite crystals. Unlike magnetite, hematite is generally nonmagnetic or only weakly magnetic, but its red streak remains diagnostic.

Field identification & locations

Common localities include Brazil, Minas Gerais; Switzerland; England; South Africa; and the United States. Test an inconspicuous area for a red streak and check that the specimen is heavy; avoid assuming every shiny black piece is hematite, since slag and mica-rich rocks can look similar.