Hematite
Hematite · Mineral Specimen and Ornamental Stone
Crystal System
Trigonal, commonly occurs as massive, botryoidal, or tabular crystal habits
Mineral Group
Oxides
Chemical Formula
Fe2O3
Formation Process
Forms through various processes including sedimentary deposition (banded iron formations), hydrothermal veins, and igneous or metamorphic processes under oxidizing conditions
About This Crystal
This polished specimen exhibits a characteristically metallic to sub-metallic luster, smooth tumbled form, and a dark metallic gray to silver-black surface showing typical reflections and minor internal inclusions or surface imperfections.
Physical Characteristics
Color is steel-gray to black with a distinctive reddish-brown streak. It has no true cleavage, exhibits an uneven to conchoidal fracture, high specific gravity around 5.26, and is opaque with high density.
Optical Properties
Opaque with a metallic to sub-metallic luster; shows no transmission of light or internal optical phenomena like pleochroism or birefringence in polished form.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Found globally with major deposits in Brazil, China, Australia, and the USA; forms in varied geological settings including hydrothermal veins and sedimentary iron formations
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 5.5 to 6.5. It has fair toughness and is moderately stable, though it can shatter under sharp impact.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth; avoid harsh acids or prolonged soaking. Store separately to prevent scratching softer stones.
Rarity & Value
Common and widely accessible; highly affordable as a tumbled stone or polished mineral specimen, with value depending on size and quality of polish.
Special Characteristics
Notable for its distinctly reddish-brown streak which distinguishes it from other metallic minerals, and its high density/specific gravity.
Lore & History
Historically used in ancient times as an amulet and for engraving seals. In modern crystal lore, it is regarded as a grounding stone associated with the root chakra, though these are traditional beliefs rather than scientific claims.