Hematite Mineral Overview

• Mineral name: Hematite
• Mineral class: Oxide
• Chemical formula: Fe₂O₃ (iron oxide)
• Crystal system: Trigonal
• Mohs hardness: 5–6
• Color range: Steel-gray, black, reddish-brown
• Luster: Metallic to earthy
• Streak: Red to reddish-brown (key identifier)
• Cleavage: None
• Fracture: Uneven to sub-conchoidal
• Specific gravity: Approximately 5.0–5.3
• Transparency: Opaque
• Common locations: Brazil, Australia, United States, Canada, China
• Uses: Iron ore, pigment, jewelry
• Similar minerals: Magnetite, goethite

Naming and Classification

Hematite is an iron oxide mineral, and one of the most important ores of iron.

The name comes from Greek:

• haima = blood

This refers to its distinctive:

• Red streak, even when the mineral appears metallic gray or black

Physical and Optical Characteristics

Hematite typically occurs as:

• Massive or granular material
• Botryoidal (rounded) forms
• Specular (sparkly, crystalline) varieties

Its appearance varies widely:

• Metallic steel-gray or black (specular hematite)
• Earthy red (red ochre)

The luster can range from:

• Metallic and reflective
• Dull and earthy

With a Mohs hardness of 5–6, it is moderately hard.

Streak (Key Feature)

Hematite is best identified by:

• Red to reddish-brown streak

This is true even when the mineral itself looks:

• Black or metallic

This property clearly distinguishes it from similar minerals like magnetite.

Chemical Composition and Structure

Hematite is composed of:

• Iron (Fe)
• Oxygen (O)

It has a simple oxide structure, making it:

• Stable
• Common in many geological environments

Formation and Geological Occurrence

Hematite forms in a wide range of environments:

Sedimentary Deposits

• Banded iron formations (BIFs)

Weathering Processes

• Oxidation of iron-rich minerals

Hydrothermal Systems

• Mineral deposition from hot fluids

Typical formation conditions include:

• Oxidizing environments
• Presence of iron-bearing fluids or sediments

It is commonly associated with:

• Magnetite
• Goethite
• Quartz

Common Locations

Hematite is found worldwide:

• Brazil: Major iron ore deposits
• Australia: Large-scale mining regions
• United States: Minnesota, Michigan
• Canada and China: Significant sources

These regions are major contributors to global iron production.

Uses and Practical Significance

Hematite is extremely important:

Iron Ore

• Primary source of iron for steel production

Pigments

• Used as:
  • Red ochre
  • Paints and cosmetics

Jewelry and Ornamental Use

• Polished metallic stones

Similar and Related Minerals

Hematite can resemble:

• Magnetite: Magnetic, black streak
• Goethite: Brownish and less metallic
• Specularite: A shiny variety of hematite

Streak and magnetism help distinguish hematite.

Identification Notes for Collectors

• Look for metallic gray or reddish material
• Check red streak (most reliable test)
• Note moderate hardness (5–6)
• Observe metallic or earthy luster
• Test for lack of strong magnetism

Hematite is an iron oxide mineral, recognized for its distinctive red streak and importance as a primary iron ore, making it one of the most economically and geologically significant minerals on Earth.