Hematite
ExploreMineral
Hematite
Hematite is a shiny mineral that looks like metal! It can be red or silver and is often found in rocks.
Appearance
The Hematite has a striking appearance, often found as shiny, metallic steel-gray crystals or as a dull, earthy reddish-brown mass. Its distinctive red streak, even in metallic forms, sets it apart from similar-looking minerals.
KingdomAnimalia
Category
MineralRarity
Common
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Snaps
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Interesting facts
Almost all the iron used in our world comes from hematite ore!
Ancient humans ground hematite into red paint for cave art thousands of years ago.
Even shiny metallic hematite leaves a reddish-brown mark, like a secret signature!
Guess what? Hematite gives Mars its famous rusty red color!
Special abilities
Ability
Bloody Streak Secret
Hematite has a distinctive reddish-brown streak, even when the mineral itself is silvery-gray, making it look like it's bleeding!
Ability
Iron Heart
Hematite is a major source of iron, which is essential for making steel and many magnetic materials.
Ability
Earth's Red Paint
Hematite's red varieties have been crushed for millennia to create vibrant red pigments for paints and cosmetics.
Measurements & details
- Color Range
- steel-gray, silvery-gray, reddish-brown, black, red
- Hardness
- 5.5
- Luster
- metallic to dull/earthy
- Specific Gravity
- 5.26
- Crystal System
- trigonal
Traits
Colorful
Colorful describes organisms or objects displaying a wide range of bright and distinct colors.
Metallic
Metallic refers to substances, materials, or objects possessing properties characteristic of metals, such as luster and conductivity.
Metallic Luster
Metallic luster describes a mineral's appearance when reflecting light, resembling polished metal, often opaque.
Gemstone
A gemstone is a piece of mineral crystal which, when cut and polished, is used to make jewelry or other adornments.
Magnetic
Magnetic geological traits refer to minerals or rocks that exhibit natural magnetism, attracting or repelling other magnetic substances.
Crystalline
Crystalline describes a mineral or rock composed of crystals, often exhibiting a regular atomic structure and geometric external form.
Also known as
Ironstone
Collections
Safety
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Handle gently and avoid sharp edges. Ask an adult before picking anything up.
Frequently Asked Questions
What colors can Hematite be?
steel-gray, silvery-gray, reddish-brown, black, red
How hard is Hematite?
5.5
What kind of luster does Hematite have?
metallic to dull/earthy
What is Hematite's specific gravity?
5.26
What crystal system does Hematite belong to?
trigonal
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