Hematite
Hematite (Iron Oxide Mineral) · Mineral Specimen / Decorative Stone
Crystal System
Trigonal; typically massive, botryoidal, or earthy habit in its raw form
Mineral Group
Oxides (Hematite group)
Chemical Formula
Fe2O3
Formation Process
Primarily sedimentary through chemical precipitation, but also forms via hydrothermal veins and weathering of other iron-rich minerals.
About This Crystal
An opaque mineral with a dull, earthy to sub-metallic luster. This specimen exhibits a reddish-brown to dark gray color with a distinctive pitted, vesicular, or porous surface texture.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Dark greyish-brown to reddish-black. Streak: Characteristically cherry-red to reddish-brown. Hardness: 5.5 to 6.5. Specific Gravity: 5.26. Cleavage: None. Fracture: Uneven to sub-conchoidal.
Optical Properties
Opaque; some specimens show slight pleochroism in thin sections, but generally non-transparent with high refractive index (~2.94-3.22).
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Brazil, Australia, USA (Lake Superior), and South Africa; occurs in sedimentary iron formations
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness 5.5–6.5. Relatively brittle toughness. Stable under normal conditions but reactive to strong acids.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Keep away from harder stones like quartz or topaz to avoid scratching. Avoid harsh household chemicals.
Rarity & Value
Common mineral. Value for raw specimens is low, primarily as industrial iron ore; however, lustrous or rhythmic botryoidal specimens have collector value.
Special Characteristics
Known as 'Bloodstone' in ancient times due to its red streak; some specimens can be weakly magnetic (if containing magnetite inclusions).
Lore & History
Historically used as a pigment for cave paintings and cosmetic rouge. In folklore, it is considered a 'grounding stone' associated with the root chakra.