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Hematite

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description Hematite Overview

Hematite is an iron oxide mineral with the chemical formula Fe₂O₃. It commonly appears in metallic gray, black, steel-gray, or reddish-brown forms, and its red streak is a useful identifying feature. Hematite has been used as a source of iron, as a polishing material, and as red ochre pigment in prehistoric art. Its dense appearance and range of finishes also make it familiar in carvings and ornamental stone.

help Hematite FAQ

What is hematite's chemical formula?

Hematite is iron oxide with the chemical formula Fe2O3. Its most useful identification test is a red to reddish-brown streak on an unglazed surface. [University of Minnesota](https://commonminerals.esci.umn.edu/minerals-g-m/hematite)

What color is hematite, and how hard is it?

Hematite can appear metallic gray, black, steel-gray, red, or reddish brown. Crystalline material is commonly around 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, while earthy forms can be much softer. [Missouri Department of Natural Resources](https://dnr.mo.gov/document-search/iron-pub2895/pub2895)

What is hematite used for?

Hematite is an important iron ore and has also been used as a red pigment. Finely powdered hematite is used in polishing compounds such as jeweler's rouge. [Geology.com](https://geology.com/minerals/hematite.shtml)

How can hematite be told apart from magnetite?

Hematite normally leaves a red or reddish-brown streak, while magnetite leaves a black streak. The name hematite comes from the Greek word haima, meaning blood, because of its red powder. [Missouri Department of Natural Resources](https://dnr.mo.gov/document-search/iron-pub2895/pub2895)

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