Mineral Species: Hematite

Chemical Formula: Fe2O3

Chemical Name: Iron Oxide

Mineral Class: Oxide

Mineral Notes: Hematite is an important ore of iron and it's red colour makes it a useful pigment. The mineral gets its name from a Greek word meaning blood-like because of this colour. Ancient belief held that large deposits of Hematite formed from the blood spilt in ancient battles battles. Crystals of Hematite are considered rare and are highly sought after together with Kidney Ore specimens. 

Description: The Hematite is highly crystalline, which is unusual for this mineral. More often Hematite forms amorphous aggregates. Individual crystals are flattened pyramidal plates and can easily be seen. Some faces show growth zones and the mineral has a very strong metallic luster.

Location: Rio Marina Mine, Elba, Italy.