Ilmenite and Hematite
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Mineral NameIlmenite and Hematite
Chemical FormulaFeTiO3 (Ilmenite), Fe2O3 (Hematite)
Mohs Hardness5
Crystal Systemtrigonal
Streak ColorBlack to brownish-red (Ilmenite), Red to reddish-brown (Hematite)
CleavageNone (parting present in both)
FractureConchoidal to uneven/subconchoidal
Specific Gravity4.7
Colorsiron-black, steel-gray, reddish-brown, red
TransparencyOpaque
Type LocalityWorldwide
Mineral GroupOxides
Usesore of titanium, ore of iron, pigment, industrial, collector
Associated Mineralsmagnetite, quartz, rutile, apatite, plagioclase, pyroxenes, goethite
Raritycommon
Description
A microscopic image under polarized light showing intergrown grains of opaque ilmenite and hematite, appearing dark, alongside other silicate minerals exhibiting various interference colors.
Geological Context
Ilmenite and hematite frequently occur together in various geological settings, including mafic igneous rocks, metamorphic rocks, and sedimentary deposits like banded iron formations, where they are important ore minerals.
