Hematite platy natural mineral from Brazil
Size-
12.5cm x 8.6cm x 5.6cm
Weight-
643g
You will receive the item in the photo
Hematite is a common iron oxide mineral. While it is famous for its metallic silver to earthy red appearance,its technical specifications depend heavily on its crystal structure and chemical makeup.
Crystal system- Trigonal. When it grows in platy or micaceous habits-featuring flat flake like,or scale like layers it is frequently referred to as specular hematite or specilarite.
Mineral class- Oxides
Hardness- 5.5-6.5 on the MOHs scale.
While it is harder then pure iron,its structure makes it quite brittle,and its apparent hardness can drop down to 5 in its softer earthier forms.
Rock formation- Hematite is a highly versatile rock forming mineral that develops in all three major geological environments.
Sedimentary rocks- This is the most abundant source. It precipitates directly out of iron-rich marine or lake waters,acting as a natural cement.
Metamorphic rocks- It forms as a result of intense heat and pressure,often during contact metasomatism where hot,chemically active fluids alter surrounding rocks into high grade ore bodies. Platy or crystalline varieties frequently develop in metamorphic fractures and hydrothermal veins as hot fluids cool down.
Igneous rocks- It occurs as an accessory mineral in volcanic environments,occasionally forming via volcanic sublimates (gases cooling directly into crystals) or as minor inclusions in magmatic rocks.
