Hematite

Fe2O3

This specimen displays a dark, metallic to submetallic luster, characteristic of hematite, possibly exhibiting a botryoidal or reniform habit.

Hematite Physical Properties

Mohs Hardness

5.5

Crystal System

trigonal

Luster

metallic

Streak Color

reddish-brown

Cleavage

none

Fracture

uneven

Specific Gravity

5.26

Colors

steel-gray, black, reddish-brown, red

Transparency

opaque

Type Locality

possibly from Tennessee, USA

Mineral Group

Oxides

Uses

iron ore, pigment, jewelry, polishing agent

Associated Minerals

quartz, magnetite, goethite, jasper

Rarity

common

Geological Context

Hematite is a common iron oxide mineral found in various geological settings, including sedimentary deposits (banded iron formations), hydrothermal veins, and as an alteration product in igneous and metamorphic rocks.

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