Hematite
Hematite tumbled
A variety of Hematite
What is Hematite?
Hematite is a dark steel grey color with a reflective aspect, making it look like shiny dark metal. Found across the world, it is now mainly mined in Brazil, South Africa, Russia, North America, and India. Hematite is a popular tumbled stone and is also made into beads, small sculptures, and cabochons.
Uses & Applications
Primary ore of iron and widely used in steel production. Polished hematite is used for jewelry, particularly in mens accessories. Used as a pigment (red ochre) since prehistoric times.
Healing Properties
Believed to improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and support the blood system. Thought to enhance focus, concentration, and memory while providing grounding energy.
Optical Properties
- Refractive Index
- 2.94-3.22
- Pleochroism
- None
- Optical Character
- Uniaxial negative
Discover Values
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Hematite before comparing listings or appraisals.
Size & Weight
Larger, intact specimens usually command higher prices.
Rarity & Demand
Scarce material or popular varieties sell at a premium.
Condition & Finish
Chips, repairs, and heavy wear lower value; clean prep helps.
Treatment & Provenance
Untreated specimens with documented locality are prized.
Where to Find Hematite
RockHoundR, the free-to-download rockhounding map from the Ruby Glint team, shows where collectors find hematite in the US, with land-access notes for BLM land and national forests. Collecting is banned in national parks.
See where to find hematiteAlways check the local rules and get the landowner's permission before you collect.
The Meaning
Known as the Stone of the Mind, believed to enhance memory and original thinking. Ancient Egyptians used it for protection and healing. Associated with grounding, courage, and strength.
Geochemistry
Forms through oxidation of iron-bearing minerals, precipitation from iron-rich solutions, and metamorphism of iron-rich sediments. Common in banded iron formations.
Associated Chakras
More Images
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Steel gray, black, red, brown
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 5-6
- Rock tumbling
- With care
- Density
- 5.3 g/cm³
- Streak
- Red to red-brown
- Luster
- Metallic
- Crystal System
- Trigonal
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Fe2O3
- Elements
- Fe, O
Also Known As
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Hematite FAQs
How do I identify Hematite?
Hematite can be identified by its hardness of 5-6 on the Mohs scale, Steel gray color, Metallic luster, Trigonal crystal system. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Hematite?
Hematite typically appears in Steel gray, black, red, brown. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Hematite?
Hematite has a hardness of 5-6 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.