Hematite

“The red planet's pigment”

Mineral

Hematite is the most important ore of iron and one of the most abundant minerals on Earth. Its name derives from the Greek word for blood, as it produces a characteristic reddish streak and has been used as a red pigment since prehistoric cave paintings.

Composition

iron oxide (Fe₂O₃)

Where Found

Lake Superior region (USA), Pilbara (Australia), Minas Gerais (Brazil), Kiruna (Sweden)

Mohs Hardness

5-6.5

Fun Fact

Mars appears red because its surface is coated with fine hematite dust — essentially, the planet is rusting.