Chemical composition -- Iron oxide.
Color -- Very dark brownish red to black.
Optics -- R.I. 2.94-3.22. Polished stones have a metallic luster.
Durability -- Hardness 5-6.5.
Crystal structure -- Hexagonal.
Specific Gravity -- 4.95-5.26.
Sources -- England is the best known supplier. Hematite is often fashioned into carvings, cameos, intaglios , and beads.