Hematite
Hematite (Iron Oxide) · Semi-Precious Gemstone / Mineral Specimen / Industrial Mineral
Crystal System
Trigonal; typically found in massive, botryoidal, micaceous, or earthy habits. Tumbled stones like this specimen are massive.
Mineral Group
Oxides (Hematite group)
Chemical Formula
Fe2O3
Formation Process
Varies; can form in igneous rocks via magmatic segregation, in sedimentary deposits through precipitation in hydrothermal veins, or via contact metamorphism.
About This Crystal
This is a polished, tumbled stone with a high metallic luster. It is opaque, displaying a steel-gray to silver-black color with a mirror-like reflective surface typical of 'specular' varieties when polished.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Steel-gray to black; Streak: Characteristic rust-red to reddish-brown; Cleavage: None; Fracture: Subconchoidal to uneven; Specific Gravity: 5.26; Tenacity: Brittle; Magnetism: Weakly magnetic or non-magnetic in natural state.
Optical Properties
Opaque; Metallic luster. It is doubly refractive but this is not visible due to opacity. In thin sections, it may show deep blood-red transparency.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Found worldwide; major sources include Brazil, Australia, China, Russia (Ural Mountains), and the USA (Lake Superior region).
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness: 5.5 to 6.5. It is relatively hard but brittle and sensitive to high impacts and scratches from harder stones like quartz.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth; avoid ultrasonic cleaners and harsh chemicals. Dry immediately to prevent oxidation. Store separately to avoid scratching.
Rarity & Value
Very Common. Abundant worldwide and generally inexpensive. Value is based on polish quality and size rather than scarcity. Synthetic 'Hemalyke' is a common commercial imitation.
Special Characteristics
High density (feels heavy for its size); produces a red streak even if the stone looks silver. Some botryoidal specimens are known as 'kidney ore'.
Lore & History
Historically used as a pigment (red ochre) in cave paintings and as mourning jewelry in the Victorian era. In folklore, it is considered a grounding stone associated with the Root Chakra and protection.