Hematite
Image: James St. John (CC BY 2.0)
Mineral NameHematite
Chemical FormulaFe2O3
Mohs Hardness6
Crystal Systemtrigonal
Lustermetallic
Streak Colorreddish-brown
Cleavagenone
Fractureuneven
Specific Gravity5.26
Colorssteel-gray, black, reddish-brown
Transparencyopaque
Type LocalityWorldwide, notable deposits in Brazil, Australia, USA (Lake Superior region)
Mineral GroupOxides
Usesiron ore, pigment, jewelry (polished forms), abrasive
Associated Mineralsquartz, jasper, magnetite, goethite
Raritycommon
Description
This specimen displays a dark, steel-gray color with a distinct metallic luster, characteristic of well-formed hematite. It appears to have a botryoidal or reniform habit, possibly with some reddish-brown earthy patches (turgite) on its surface.
Geological Context
Hematite forms in a variety of geological settings, including sedimentary environments (e.g., banded iron formations), hydrothermal veins, and as a product of weathering or metamorphism. It is the most important iron ore mineral.
