Hematite
Last updated: April 2026
An iron oxide with a high metallic luster and a characteristic red-brown streak.
Hematite has a specific gravity of 5.28 and a refractive index of 2.940–3.220, with a Mohs hardness of 5.5–6.5. It is uniaxial −.
Physical & Optical Properties
RI Range2.940–3.220
SG Range4.95–5.30
SG Typical5.28
Hardness (Mohs)5.5–6.5
Crystal SystemTrigonal
Optic CharacterDR Uniaxial (−)
Birefringence0.280
Dispersion0.000
Fluorescence LWInert
Fluorescence SWInert
Chelsea FilterInert
PleochroismNone
ColorsBlack
SpeciesHematite
Key Differentiators
- High metallic luster
- Very high specific gravity
- Reddish-brown streak
Treatments
- Hematine / Synthetic hematite (magnetic)
Price Context
Natural — low ($/ct)$1
Natural — high ($/ct)$5
NotePer carat; inexpensive ornamental stone; hematite simulants (hematine) are very common in market
Price context is approximate. GemID is not an appraisal tool. Results are indicators, not certified valuations.
Measurement Guides
Identifying a hematite? GemID walks through these tests in order — RI, SG, fluorescence, and more.
Try GemID Free →Studying for the GIA, FGA, or FEEG practical? Hematite is one of the 130 species in GemID’s drill and exam pool — practice identifying it from its measured properties under timed exam conditions.
Practice exams →