Characteristics of Hematite:

Chemical Name: Iron oxide

Formula: Fe2O3

Colors: Black, grey, silver, red, brown

Structure: Trigonal

Hardness: 5.5-6.5

Specific Gravity: 5.1-5.3

Refractive Index: 2.94-3.22

Lustre: Metallic to earthy

Streak: Red to reddish brown

Locations: China, Australia, Brazil, India, Russia, Ukraine, South Africa, Canada, Venezuela, USA, UK

What is Hematite?

 Hematite is an iron oxide and a relatively abundant mineral. Its name comes from the Greek word for “blood” and although it can be various colors, it always produces a red streak. The reddish appearance of Mars is due to the presence of hematite on its surface and is the reason for its nickname, the “red planet”. As a gemstone material it is dense with a high refractive index. In powdered form it provides the basis for many paints – pigment made from hematite has been found in cave paintings dating back 40,000 years.