AllMineralsRock
Hematite
Hematite is a very popular mineral composed of iron oxide. [1]
Hematite: Quick Facts and Characteristics
Some quick facts for Hematite:- Transparency: Hematite is opaque.
- Crystallography: In terms of crystallography, hematite can be hexagonal or trigonal.
- Luster: In terms of luster, hematite can be dull or metallic.
- Streak: Hematite streaks brown, red, red reddish, reddish or reddish brown.
- Hardness: Hematite's hardness ranges from 5 to 6.5 on the Moh's scale.
- Specific Gravity: Hematite's specific gravity ranges from 4.95 to 5.26.
Hematite: Background and Summary
Hematite is a mineral that is commonly found in the Earth's crust. It is a form of iron oxide, and it is known for its metallic luster and reddish-brown color. Hematite is often used in jewelry and other decorative items due to its unique appearance. It is also used in the production of iron and steel, as well as in pigments and coatings.One of the easiest ways to identify hematite is by its color and luster. Hematite has a dark, reddish-brown color that is often described as "rusty." Its metallic luster gives it a shiny appearance, and it is often mistaken for other metals like silver or platinum. Hematite is also quite heavy, with a specific gravity of around 5.3. This makes it easy to distinguish from other minerals that may look similar.
Hematite has many uses in industry and manufacturing. One of its most important uses is in the production of iron and steel. Hematite is a major source of iron ore, and it is used to make pig iron, which is then used to make steel. Hematite is also used in the production of pigments and coatings. It is ground into a fine powder and used as a coloring agent in paints, plastics, and other materials.
In addition to its industrial uses, hematite is also used in jewelry and other decorative items. Hematite beads and pendants are popular in the jewelry industry, and they are often used in bracelets, necklaces, and earrings. Hematite is also used in home decor items like bookends, paperweights, and figurines.
Hematite: Table of Properties
| Attribute | Hematite (src) |
|---|---|
| Transparency | opaque |
| Chemical Formula | Fe2O3 |
| Chemical Composition | iron oxide |
| Specific Gravity | 4.95, 5.26 |
| Hardness | 5, 6.5 |
| Streak | reddish, red reddish, brown, reddish brown, red |
| Crystallography | hexagonal, trigonal |
| Refractive Index | 2.94, 3.22 |
| Hydrous | No |
| Colors | common: red, gray, brown sometimes: steel less common: black, silver, band, multicolor |
| Birefringence | δ = 0.280 |
| Fracture | 1: 1 |
Hematite: FAQ
Q: Is hematite magnetic?A: Yes, hematite is weakly magnetic. However, it is not as magnetic as other metals like iron or nickel.
Q: Can hematite be found in nature?
A: Yes, hematite is a naturally occurring mineral that is found in many parts of the world.
Q: Is hematite toxic?
A: No, hematite is not toxic. It is an inert mineral that poses no health risks to humans or animals.
Sources
- "Hematite." Geology.com, https://geology.com/minerals/hematite.shtml.- "Hematite." Mindat.org, https://www.mindat.org/min-1834.html.
- "Hematite." Minerals.net, https://www.minerals.net/mineral/hematite.aspx.
- Hematite: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hematite
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