Mineral Species: Hematite var. Specularite
Chemical Formula: Fe2O3
Chemical Name: Ferric Oxide
Mineral Class: Oxide
Mineral Notes: Hematite is the principal ore of iron. The variety Specularite is a micaceous or flaky form that is sparkling silvery blue and when found in massive form sometimes used as an ornamental stone. When ground up very fine the mineral has been used as a cosmetic and pigment, particulalry in ancient Africa.
Description: A red-brown Hematite matrix whose top is richly covered by a thick crust of Specularite. The mineral is highly crystalline forming both flakes and needle-like crystals. The colour is black, several areas showing a blue irridescence. A number of well-formed, transparent, Quartz crystals sit above the Specularite providing a highly attractive contrast.
Location: Ullcoats Mine, Egremont, Cumbria, England.