Where is Hematite found?
Hematite
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Open the appHematite occurs in specific geological environments. Knowing where to look, and in what kind of rock, is the difference between going home empty-handed and finding a great specimen.
Where to find Hematite
Lake Superior Region, USA (Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin)
World-renowned for vast deposits of high-grade hematite in Banded Iron Formations (BIFs), particularly the Mesabi Range.
Minas Gerais, Brazil
Significant deposits of high-grade hematite, including large quantities of 'itabirite' (a banded iron formation rich in hematite).
Pilbara Region, Western Australia
One of the largest iron ore provinces globally, with extensive hematite deposits in BIFs.
Krivoy Rog, Ukraine
Major iron ore basin with substantial hematite reserves.
Cumbria, England
Historically famous for high-quality 'kidney ore' hematite specimens.
Collecting tips
- Streak Test is Key. Always perform a streak test. Hematite's characteristic reddish-brown streak is its most reliable diagnostic property, distinguishing it from other dark, metallic minerals like magnetite or galena.
- Look for Heavy Samples. Hematite has a relatively high specific gravity (4.9-5.3), so samples will feel noticeably heavy for their size compared to many other common minerals.
- Observe Luster and Habit. Note the luster (metallic, dull, earthy) and crystal habit (massive, botryoidal, micaceous). Specular hematite (micaceous, metallic) and kidney ore (botryoidal, metallic to submetallic) are particularly distinctive forms.
- Check for Magnetism (or lack thereof). Unlike magnetite, hematite is generally non-magnetic. Weak magnetism can occur if it contains inclusions of magnetite or if it has been heated, but it is not inherently magnetic.
Quick Check
- Color:
- Steel-gray, black, reddish-brown, or red
- Luster:
- Metallic, submetallic, dull, or earthy
- Streak:
- Reddish-brown to blood-red
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