Hematite

Hematite, common mineral consisting largely of iron oxide. An important iron ore, it is also used for making paints and polishes. Hematite occurs as a gray-black to red-brown mineral in both sedimentary and metamorphic rocks. Hematite may form spectacular shapes. In Brazil it occurs as large flat plates 6 in (15 cm) or more across. In the Alps it is found in masses called iron roses, and in Cumberland, England, it occurs as kidney-shaped red-clack stones. In North America large deposits of hematite are found around Lake Superior and in the Appalachians.