Hematite
Hematite · Mineral Specimen and Decorative Stone
Crystal System
Trigonal, commonly found as massive, botryoidal, or tabular crystal habits, and frequently tumbled into smooth, rounded shapes.
Mineral Group
Oxides
Chemical Formula
Fe2O3
Formation Process
Forms primarily through sedimentary processes (such as banded iron formations), hydrothermal veins, and as an accessory mineral in igneous rocks, crystallizing under varying temperature and pressure conditions.
About This Crystal
This specimen is a smoothly tumbled, polished pebble of a dark metallic grey-to-black color. It features a highly reflective, mirror-like metallic luster that catches the light clearly, displaying an opaque body with a cool, sleek surface finish typical of commercially tumbled decorative stones.
Physical Characteristics
Metallic grey to black body color with a distinct reddish-brown streak. It has no true cleavage, exhibits an uneven to conchoidal fracture, has a high specific gravity around 5.26, and is brittle in crystalline forms but durable when massive or tumbled.
Optical Properties
Opaque with a metallic to sub-metallic luster. It does not transmit light and does not exhibit standard refractive indices or birefringence due to its opacity.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Found globally with notable deposits in Brazil, Italy, Australia, Canada, and the United States. Forms in diverse geological settings including sedimentary, hydrothermal, and igneous environments.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness ranges from 5.5 to 6.5. It has moderate to good durability, making it suitable for polished stones and certain types of jewelry, though it can chip if subjected to sharp impacts.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners, ultrasonic cleaners, and prolonged exposure to moisture to prevent any potential surface tarnishing or rust formation on exposed iron components.
Rarity & Value
Very common and widely available worldwide. Value is generally very low for tumbled stones and common mineral specimens, making it exceptionally accessible for collectors and jewelry makers alike.
Special Characteristics
Renowned for its distinctive, heavy metallic weight and its trademark reddish-brown streak, which is the definitive diagnostic property used to identify hematite regardless of its external metallic polish.
Lore & History
Historically used by ancient civilizations like the Egyptians and Native Americans for amulets, war paint, and talismans due to its blood-red streak. In modern metaphysical practices, it is traditionally associated with grounding, protection, and balancing the root chakra.